Image via WikipediaA treadmill in the home improves physical condition without a trip to a gym or a health club. Drawback: It gets monotonous.
Cost: Motorized models are priced from $750 to $3,275 (for a top-quality model). Treadmills powered by the runner are less expensive, but not recommended. Reason: A motor-driven belt gives a more controllable workout, which makes it safer and, in the end, more efficient.
Features to evaluate: Speed. For the young and fit, a top speed of 8 mph is recommended. Others: Start at 1.5 mph to 5 mph.
The elevation. A 5% to 10% grade range is more than enough. Anything higher isn’t good for the legs. Treadmills without any elevation-adjustment force you to run longer for the same exercise benefits. But motorized adjustment of elevation is an unnecessary luxury. Running surface. A rubber-covered smooth plate is best. Certain cheaper models have metal rollers under a rubber belt, which lends a strange feel to the running surface.
Controls. They should be accessible while running. Some models offer remote control, which is an extra feature you may want to consider.
Idea: Purchase a darkroom clock with a sweep second hand and an adjustable timer. The big luminescent dial is easier than a stop-watch to keep an eye on while exercising.
Source: The Cardiologists’ Guide to Fitness and Health Through Exercise by L.R. Zohman, MD, A.A. Kattus MD, and D.G. Softness, MD, Simon & Schuster, New York.
