Home Treadmilll Recommendations?

[jdog]

I think it's time to invest in a home treadmill. I don't want it to be come a place to hang my clothes. :)

Anyone have good ideas on which manufacturer/model to buy?

jdog

[owlyn]

I think it's time to invest in a home treadmill. I don't want it to be come a place to hang my clothes. :)

Anyone have good ideas on which manufacturer/model to buy?

jdog

Depends how much you want to spend. A professional model is made much better than the consumer models, and will last a lot longer but costs a lot more. We actually wore out one treadmill (a low end department store model, which, BTW, are all made by the same company). I had even replaced several parts to extend its life, but eventually, it wasn't worth doing anything else to it. We replaced it with another department store model, but not the cheapest one- we went up one level. Basically, don't get the $300 units- get the $500 units- they are made better and have more features. Speaking of which- the most important features (besides the mileage/time counter which they all have) is a wide cushioned deck and motorized incline. Also, this is one product where you should defintely get the extended warrantee. I have used it numerous times on both treadmills.

The ProForm Crosswalk series is the minimum to go with. That's what we have now, and it has needed much less attention than the previous, less expensive model. If you can afford a professional unit ($2000+), definitely go that way. Never pay full retail for any treadmill. There are always sales.

[SteveFromIowa]

It's somewhat dated now, but the Feb 08 Consumer Reports has an informative report and recommendations. I can scan it and email a PDF from work tomorrow if you're interested.

[foxl]

jdog, I researched them in Feb. and was not amused at hohw much space they take up -- even if they fold.

I ended up with an exercise bike instead. I am throwing it out there, in case you look at the footprint and decide they are too big ...

I am happy with my bike. Lower-impact, too.

[Handybear]

I researched tread mills and I wound up with a Spirit Treadmill.
The reason I chose it was the warranty. It has lifetime warranty on the frame and running deck and a 30 year warranty on the motor. I got the folding model and for the past three years is has proven to be a very good machine.