Treadmills belong to cardio equipment. With properly selected and regular classes, they help to increase the endurance of the body, strengthen the cardiovascular system. And for those who want to get rid of excess weight, such a simulator is simply necessary.

It should be noted here that the quality of exercises (and hence the results and motivation for continuing classes) largely depends on the correct choice and purchase of a treadmill. At the same time, the selected simulator should have an adequate cost. It makes no sense to make a purchase based solely on the idea that the most expensive is the best.

Types of treadmills

 

First of all, you should tell us about the types of treadmills. They can be mechanical, magnetic and electric.

Mechanical models. The simplest and most accessible type. The movement of the canvas here is provided exclusively by the person himself. And to regulate the load, the slope of the canvas simply changes or the braking of the front drum is set. The undoubted advantages of mechanical models (except cost) are simplicity of design, low weight and battery life. Such a simulator can be installed anywhere, it does not need to provide electricity supply. In addition, the conditions of running on a mechanical simulator are considered as close to real as possible. At the same time, mechanical tracks do not have any additional functions, they simply cannot have any special work programs. Although it is possible to monitor the pulse, time and speed.

But most importantly, mechanical tracks are not recommended for people who have problems with legs and joints, thrombosis or varicose veins. The fact is that the need to move the tape independently means an additional load, which may be undesirable. Mechanical models are also not recommended for people who are in the process of rehabilitation after injuries.

Magnetic models. In principle, this is a special case of mechanical models. They are also very simple, inexpensive and affordable. But at the same time they are able to provide better smoothness. A feature of the design of such tracks is the presence of a special magnet, due to the position of which the resistance to movement is regulated. Magnetic tracks are also not recommended for people who have problems with their feet.

Electric models. The movement of the web here is provided by an electric motor. Such models are more complicated and significantly more expensive, but they can provide different speeds of the tape, which means that the level of load on the legs can be adjusted. Such models are much more functional — there are even solutions equipped with touch screens, through which you can not only monitor your pulse, but also check your email. In addition to the high cost, the disadvantages of these solutions include dependence on the outlet, which must be taken into account when choosing a place for the simulator. But electric tracks can use absolutely everything. It is simulators of this type that are the most popular today.

What to pay attention to

Be sure to pay attention to the size of the canvas, which should correspond to the dimensions of the largest member of the family. There is no point in buying the largest model, because it will take up a lot of space, and why pay extra. Here it can be noted that a canvas of 130x40 cm will suit most people. However, it is best to choose the size before buying. For example, by trying out tracks of different sizes in stores or a gym. But it also does not make sense to save too much — it will be uncomfortable to practice on the track "end-to-end".

When choosing the size of the track, you should also take into account the place where it will stand. By the way, under very cramped conditions, it makes sense to look for a folding model. If you plan to move the simulator frequently from place to place, then it is desirable that it has transport rollers and compensators for floor irregularities.

When choosing, you should also remember about the maximum weight of a person that the track can withstand. It is determined based on the weight of the heaviest family member. At the same time, it is necessary to leave a reserve of at least 10 kg. And if the goal of the exercises is to increase muscle mass, then the margin should be even greater. At the same time, the ability of the track to withstand a very large weight also means a high cost. It simply does not make sense to acquire the most enduring model from a financial point of view.

The maximum speed of the web movement. This parameter is relevant only for electric models, because in mechanical models the speed of movement is set by the trainee himself. If you are not going to play sports professionally, then there is simply no point in chasing speed too much. The vast majority of users will have enough speed up to 15 km/ h (so-called entry-level models). By the way, the power of the electric motor in this case should be at least 1.5 horsepower (or even better — 2 hp).

 

For people who have problems with their legs, as well as novice runners, it makes sense to choose a model with a shock absorption system. In this case, the track is slightly springy during exercises. The load on the legs is reduced. The cost of such solutions is higher, but health is more expensive. If there are no problems, but there is a desire to play sports seriously, then it is better to take a rigid model — get conditions as close to real as possible.

The ability to adjust the tilt means the ability to set the level of load on the legs. An imitation of uphill movement is created. Usually the slope level is set manually. However, for the most advanced models, it can be changed using a special automated drive.

A good electric track must have a safety key that is attached to the athlete's belt. If a person falls, the track will automatically turn off. This is done to increase security.

Control Panel (console). A lot depends on your wishes and financial capabilities. As mentioned above, the control panel of other models is more like a tablet computer. At the same time, the simplest models may not have any console at all. It is very desirable to have data such as speed, distance traveled, pulse of the athlete. With such data, you can independently make up your own training programs, without allowing your heart to strain excessively.

A good console should be distinguished by intuitively simple operation, have a clear indication. The athlete must read all the data even with a cursory glance, without looking closely. The choice of training parameters should also not cause any problems. Advanced consoles are also equipped with calorie counters, fat analyzers, and various tests. Their presence or absence is determined by what exactly you need a track for, to increase endurance or remove excess weight. Well, whether you need a Facebook connection or the ability to watch movies during classes — decide for yourself. After all, why not make sports more interesting.

The same can be said about all kinds of additional functions. Here everyone decides for himself, because the more functions, the higher the cost of the simulator. But if such an addition as the presence of a mount for a water bottle will be useful to everyone, then the speakers will be useful exclusively for fans of listening to music during a workout.