Comparison Spirit Fitness CT800 vs Spirit Fitness Esprit XT-685

The highest weight of an athlete, at which the treadmill can work indefinitely for a long time (at least during the warranty period) without negative consequences. Most modern models have a "weight category" of the order of 150 kg and even more, which allows them to be used even by people of large build. However, there are exceptions, so this parameter is still worth paying attention to when choosing a treadmill.

It is worth choosing a model by weight with a significant margin — at least 10 kg more than your weight, even if you expect to lose it during training. If, on the contrary, you are going through a comprehensive training course to gain weight, then you should focus on the result you want by the end of the course. Anyway, the "weight category" of the machine must be greater than the weight of the user. Otherwise, the device will work with off-design loads and may break at any time.

If the treadmill is planned to be used for several users, you need to focus on the weight of the heaviest of them.

The slowest speed at which the treadmill belt can move. This parameter is indicated only for electric models (see "Load system"), as in other types, it depends solely on the user himself.

The ability to operate the belt at a low speed is important if strong loads are contraindicated — for example, during the rehabilitation period after injuries. In many modern models, this figure is only 1 km/h (even though the average walking speed of a healthy person is about 5 km/h). Thus, they can be used even with serious injuries, when normal walking is very difficult.

The highest speed at which the treadmill belt can move. This parameter is indicated only for models of the electric type (see above). For mechanical and magnetic ones, it depends solely on the capabilities of the athlete himself, and it is impossible to accurately indicate the maximum speed in the characteristics of such machines.

The higher the maximum speed the greater the load can be given to the athlete and the better the treadmill is suitable for intensive training. However, for home models, a speed of 15 – 16 km/h is considered quite sufficient; "faster" machines usually belong to the advanced class and are designed for professional athletes.

Note, that for everyday use it does not always make sense to chase a high maximum speed. If your level of physical fitness is not high or if high loads are undesirable, a speed of 10 – 12 km/h may well be enough.

Power of the motor installed in the electric treadmill (see "Load system"). This parameter is directly related, first of all, to the smoothness of the belt movement and the maximum speed (see above) — the more powerful the motor, the more uniform the movement of the belt will be and the faster it can move. Also, motor power determines the resistance to high loads: with an equal weight category (see "User weight"), a more powerful model is better suited for people with large body weight, especially at high speeds.

In general, most recreational treadmills have motors between 1.5 and 2.5 hp; more powerful options usually belong to the professional class.

It is worth noting that above we were talking about the constant power of the motor — that is, the power with which it can work for a long time without being subjected to overloads. In some models of treadmills, the so-called peak power — the power that the motor can develop for a short time, for a few seconds. It is higher, but long-term operation at such a load is fraught with the failure of the device. Therefore, before buying, it is worthwhile to clarify, if possible, what power is implied in the specs — nominal or peak; this is especially true for high-power models.

The largest angle at which the treadmill can be tilted; For details on this function, see "Adjustable incline". The greater the maximum angle, the steeper the climb can be simulated by the treadmill, and the more intense the load it can provide. The angle of inclination is calculated from the horizontal.

Some models allow you to tilt the belt not only simulating an ascent but also simulating a descent. For such models, two values of the maximum angles are indicated, while the “downhill” angle is indicated by a negative number — for example, “20 ° / -6 °”

The number of training programs provided for in the design of the simulator. This is not about load levels, but about automatic modes of operation, during which the belt can change the speed of movement, signal the beginning and end of a workout, etc. For details on the number of programs, see Programs and information.

— Workout time. In the simplest version, found in all models with this function, the calculation takes into account the time of one workout — from the moment the treadmill is turned on or the movement starts until it stops. More advanced models can sum up the total time or time for a certain period (for example, a week), count the time in the "target zone" (at the optimal speed and load mode), display the average training time, etc. The specific capabilities of the time counter should be specified in the documentation for each model.

— Distance. It is the distance conventionally covered by the athlete on the treadmill. Separate functions of such a display may differ from model to model, they may include both a simple counter that takes into account the distance from the moment the simulator was turned on, and the summation of distances for a certain period, the calculation of the average distance for a workout, the countdown of the distance to the desired value, etc.

— lap count. Displays the number of laps completed by the user on the conditional running track. The ability to simulate such tracks is found in some advanced models of treadmills, while such simulation may include changing the load in different sections. Lap count is more of a welcome addition than a necessity, but it can be quite handy.

— Speed. It is the conditional speed of the athlete on the treadmill, in fact, the speed of the movement of the treadmill belt. Models with this function can at least display the speed at the current time; and more advanced options include saving speed records, deriving the average speed for a workout, warning about exceeding/decreasing relative to the desired value, etc.

— Heart rate measurment. The ability to display on the screen the heart rate of the athlete at the current moment of training. The heart rate is one of the most important parameters in training. The optimal heart rate values will be different depending on the goals — for example, for burning fat, the optimal rate will be lower than for training to strengthen the cardiovascular system. Also, there is the concept of the maximum allowable heart rate — it differs depending on age, gender, physique, etc. Exceeding this heart rate is fraught with health problems. Everyone can derive specific figures for the moments described for themselves using the formulas available in specialized sources, or check with specialists. We note that the vast majority of modern treadmills have the function of measuring the heart rate, but it can be implemented in different ways. In some versions, the sensors are placed on the handrail, you need to hold on to them with your hands during training; others may use remote sensors mounted on the arm, on the earlobe, etc. Also, the heart rate measurement may include additional functions — for example, an alarm about exceeding safe values.

— Recovery test. The ability to work the treadmill in the recovery test mode. This check allows you to determine the degree of fitness of the body, or, to put it more simply, whether the athlete is in good shape. The basis for the assessment is the ability to recover after physical exertion, and this ability is determined in this way: the treadmill measures the heart rate immediately after the test program, then after 1 minute, and displays the result based on the ratio of these data. The result is usually expressed in points, which can be deciphered using special tables; usually, such tables are included in the documentation set for the treadmill with the recovery test function.

— Calorie consumption. The ability to display on the screen of the treadmill information about calories spent for the time since the start of the workout. Note that the treadmill does not measure the energy spent by the athlete, the calculation is carried out as follows: the device takes the data stored in the memory about the approximate calorie consumption in a particular mode of operation and multiplies this figure by the training time in this mode. Thus, the calculations do not take into account the individual characteristics of each person, and the data is very approximate. However, if your goal is not professional sports, this accuracy is usually sufficient.

— Generated power. it is the amount of power that was transferred to the exercise treadmill during exercise. This parameter allows you to more objectively assess the energy consumption of the user and also allows you to more accurately calculate the rate of calories burned.

— Workout chart. The treadmill screen displays a workout schedule that conveniently records the intensity level and duration of the workout. The chart allows you to visually assess the amount of energy spent, and at the same time, calories burned, at various stages of the training. Additionally, it allows you to take control of the pace of the run. A decreasing or increasing schedule will tell you when it is desirable to increase the load, and when to reduce it, to evenly distribute forces throughout the entire training program. Some models allow you to save the results of training in a graphical form and compare the diagrams of past sessions with each other.

— Fat analyzer. This feature allows you to display body fat percentages. Measuring the amount of fat is based on the fact that different types of human tissues have different resistance to electricity: when measured, an electric discharge is passed through the body, which is not felt by a person and is safe for him, but at the same time sufficient for the treadmill electronics. By passing the discharge, the percentage of fat is determined. Of course, these data are very approximate, but they may well be useful, for example, to compare the state of the body before and after a course of training. Note that the use of a fat analyzer requires certain precautions to be observed: in particular, this function cannot be used by children, pregnant women, and people with electronic pacemakers. A complete set of such rules, usually, is prescribed in the documentation for the treadmill; before use, be sure to familiarize yourself with it and strictly adhere to it.

— Body mass index (BMI). The automatic calculation of the body mass index allows you to adjust the training modes for each user, as well as more objectively evaluate the result of training programs. Body mass index (BMI) is the ratio of a person's height to their weight. Calculated using the following formula: weight/height/height. Let's assume that the user weighs 70 kg and is 1.76 m tall. In this case, BMI = 70/1.76/1.76 = 22.6. The normal BMI is considered to be an index from 19 to 24. If the user's BMI is insufficient (less than 19), then the treadmill will recommend workouts based on gaining body density and increasing muscle mass. When the MBI is excessive (over 24), the machine will recommend using a training program to reduce fat mass.

— Basal metabolic rate (BMR). The treadmill analyzes your basal metabolic rate to more accurately calculate calories burned during your workout. The basal metabolic rate (BMR) characterizes the consumption of calories that are spent to support basic physiological processes in the body — it describes the amount of energy spent outside of training sessions when a person is at rest. BMR assessment is important when developing individual training programs. Additionally, the basal metabolism rate should be taken into account when compiling a diet.

— Room temperature. Displays the ambient temperature on the treadmill screen. This is not a basic function, but it can be useful for comfort: for example, you can determine at what temperature it is most convenient for you to train, and then adjust it accordingly before each session.

— handlebar control. On the handles of the treadmill are buttons for controlling training modes. Usually, they can be used to adjust the speed of the running belt, as well as stop/start the treadmill. In more advanced machines, buttons can additionally be placed on the handles to adjust the angle of inclination, switch training programs, start/stop the timer, etc.

— Vibration massager. The treadmill is additionally equipped with a vibration massager with replaceable belts, which is quite rare among such devices. The vibration massager system consists of a stable, height-adjustable stand and a set of special belts. By selecting the necessary belt, program, speed and intensity of work, the user can perform various types of massages: relaxing, corrective, anti-cellulite, etc. During the procedure, the device simultaneously massages the muscles and makes them contract. The vibration massage function is primarily used to correct the figure, warm up the muscles before exercise and relieve fatigue after them.

— Fan. The treadmill's fan will keep you comfortable during intense workouts, especially in warm weather: the additional air movement increases the evaporation of sweat from the skin, helps cool the body down and prevents overheating.

— Bottle holder. A special stand that allows you to convenientl...y place a bottle of water directly on the simulator. The holder is usually made in such a way that, on the one hand, it is easy to get the bottle, on the other hand, it excludes the possibility of its falling out. This feature will allow you to always have a supply of water on hand and make up for its lack in the body during long workouts, without being distracted from the actual workout and without stopping movement.

— Emergency stop key. The possibility of an emergency stop of the treadmill can significantly increase the safety of training. Usually, an emergency stop key consists of a magnetic contact group, a cable and a clothespin. So, during training, a magnetic key is attached to the control panel of the simulator, a cable is drawn from it (usually less than 1 metre long), and at the end, there is a clothespin that is fixed to the edge of a T-shirt or a belt. If the user stumbles or loses control of the treadmill's speed, the tightness of the cable will simply pull out the magnetic key, which will turn off the motor.

— Colour display. The presence of a colour display in the design of the treadmill. This feature does not affect the main features of the device. However, such displays are considered more convenient and pleasant to view than monochromatic ones. Some models may include various additional features designed to make training more interesting — for example, the ability to play DVD movies or virtual workouts (see above).

— Bluetooth. The presence of a Bluetooth wireless module in the treadmill allows the treadmill to be synchronized with the user's smartphone, tablet or laptop/PC. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to control the results of training in a convenient form. Additionally, Bluetooth wireless communication can be used to download new training programs to the computer of the treadmill and synchronize with the heart rate monitor via the ANT protocol.

— Wi-Fi. The presence of a Wi-Fi wireless communication module in the design of the treadmill. The Wi-Fi interface was originally intended for connecting to computer networks (including Internet access), but more recently it has also been used for direct connection between different devices, without using a network. The specific features implemented using this module may be different. So, some machines can interact with training programs installed on tablets and smartphones and transmit information to such programs about the details of the training (distance travelled, calories burned, etc.), others allow you to update the firmware or change the settings remotely, etc.

— USB port. USB itself is a universal interface designed to connect external peripherals to a computer or other control device. Actually, for the same purpose it is used in modern treadmills; but the specific application in different models may be different. So, USB can be used to connect heart rate sensors and other specialized accessories, to play music and/or video from UDB drives, to update the firmware using the same USB drive, etc.

— TV tuner. The presence in the design of the simulator of a TV tuner — a device designed to receive television broadcasts. This function is useful for those who would like to be able to watch their favourite TV programs, series, etc. in the process of training: usually, models with TV tuners also have colour displays and speakers (see below), which allows you to watch the broadcast directly on the treadmill. However, you need to remember that tuners can be designed for different broadcast standards; therefore, before purchasing a model with this function, it is advisable to make sure that it is compatible with local TV broadcasts.

— mini-jack 3.5 mm (Aux). The 3.5 mm mini-jack (Aux) connector is designed to connect an MP3 player or a smartphone/tablet. This allows you to output the sound signal from multimedia devices to the speakers built into the treadmill. Some models may additionally have a mini-jack connector for connecting headphones. The sound output to the headphones will allow you to train to your favourite music without disturbing other people in the same room.

— Speakers. Through its speakers, the treadmill can play various audio information — service signals (exceeding the heart rate, the end of the program, etc.) or musical compositions and soundtracks of films played on the display (see above).

— Tablet stand. Allows you to securely and safely mount a tablet with almost any screen size on the treadmill. Thanks to this, the user can enjoy watching TV shows or movies directly during training. Usually, the stand is located under the main screen of the treadmill. Advanced class models are often equipped with a stand with the ability to adjust the angle of the tablet. Also, the treadmill can be equipped with a USB port and built-in speakers; some models may have a Wi-Fi wireless module.

Under the dimensions of the belt in the specs of treadmills, they usually mean the dimensions of the working area — that is, the running deck within which the user's feet stay during training. Several points determine the optimal length and width of the belt.

The long treadmill length ensures safety — less likely to seriously stumble and fall out of rhythm. On the other hand, a long belt requires a more powerful motor, and the dimensions of the treadmills increase accordingly. With all this in mind, it is believed that the optimal length for home use is 120 – 130 cm; longer belts are designed for use in fitness centres and professional training.

Both safety and comfort when using the treadmill also depend on the width of the belt. This parameter is especially important for people of large build — on a narrow canvas, they can be “cramped”. On the other hand, as in the case of length, a large width means a large size of the treadmill itself. In general, entry-level models have a belt up to 40 cm, in more advanced treadmills there are options for 45 cm, and for professional use, this figure can reach 50 cm.

When choosing a treadmill according to the size of the belt, it is best not only to take into account all of the above, but also to try out the option that interests you before making a purchase. After all, a lot depends on personal characteristics and preferences, and a seemingly suitable treadmill may be small — or vice versa, a more...compact and inexpensive option is quite suitable.