Don’t Overlook Speed

An average treadmill would have a maximum speed of 10 MPH – that is 6 minutes per mile. If you’re like most people (who run twice every week or some such), that should be enough. However, if you tend to run repeats or you run at a much faster pace than that, then don’t overlook speed when you go treadmill shopping. Obviously, you want a machine that can keep up with your pace, and you can’t have that from a machine that is only capable of 8 MPH or below in terms of speed.

If speed is what you want, choose a machine that will move at your pace. That should be the rule. Stay away from machines that can’t even move at 10 MPH, because that’s very telling on how the treadmill was constructed. Hey, we all want to move faster and if the treadmill can’t even keep up with the average speed, then why would you want something like that?

Don’t Settle for Short and Narrow

One question: Can you keep an even line when you run? I don’t think anyone can. Besides, if that were the case, we’d all be running in treadmills six inches wide. Wouldn’t that be a picture? Just imagine running while focusing on burning calories, while keeping an eye on the timer, while concentrating on staying on the thing…. It’s just not viable. So when you buy a treadmill, make sure that you don’t settle for one with a short and narrow deck.

Your treadmill doesn’t even have to be too wide. Remember, you’re placing that thing in your house so unless you bought a treadmill that can be folded (much more expensive!), then you’d better pick one that is wide enough for you run effectively, but narrow enough to save space in your home. Of course, the rule always would be “the wider the better,” but pay attention to space anyway.

When it comes to length, your choice depends on how steady your pace is, as well as how long your stride is. If you find yourself always slowing down and drifting off the back when you’re almost done with the run, a longer deck would be a wise choice. That way, you’ll have time to catch up before you fall off!

The length of the deck also depends on your height. Taller runners tend to have longer strides and, hence, need longer decks. But then again, if your goal is to improve your form, shorter decks are excellent, because they will force you to keep the strike turnover quick and snappy. A treadmill with a deck that is somewhere between 52 inches and 60 inches is the average. Anything shorter than 52 inches would be too short and you’ll find yourself feeling a bit like a hamster on a wheel. A treadmill over 60 inches long would just be impractical.

Don’t Fall for Products without Money-back Guarantees

Two things you must consider when you buy a treadmill: cushioning and foldability. The first has to do more with avoiding injury. The second really isn’t a word (but you get the point).

One of the main reasons why people buy treadmills today is to avoid injury. Many running injuries happen because the ground really is not suitable for running (but you run anyway, because, well, calories are aplenty and you need to get a-burning). Treadmills are one way of avoiding getting leg injuries and the reason for this is the cushioning provided.