This article will address some of the lesser considered buying aspects of purchasing a treadmill machine. Beyond the basics use these top six tips before making a final decision.

Walking or running?

A very fundamental decision is whether you are going to use the treadmill for walking or running. A treadmill suitable only for walking can be much lighter in construction, use a smaller motor or no motor at all and will be priced accordingly. On the other hand, a treadmill designed for walking will likely be unstable, have poor cushioning, dimension that will be restrictive and make a very poor choice for running. Of course, any running treadmill will be fine for walking.

Folding or non-folding?

A folding treadmill allows the running deck to fold up to vertical, resulting in a much smaller foot print for compact storage. This can be very important if you live in an apartment or the treadmill is located in a room that is used for other things. On higher priced units, there is a power assist feature that helps off set the weight of the running deck when raising or lowering. Folding treadmills have become more like non folding treadmills in terms of stability and durability but by necessity, folding treadmills are likely to be lighter and not quite as durable as the fixed deck type. Of course, price plays a big role. A high end folding treadmill will feel more solid than a low end non folding treadmill.

How hard and fast do you want to go?

Most treadmills are capable of speeds of 10MPH and inclines of 10 pct. If you need to go faster or want the additional intensity that comes with greater incline, make sure to check the specs.

What do you weigh and how tall are you?

Treadmills take a serious pounding and this is only magnified as a runners weight increases. To be on safe side, subtract 50 lbs from the stated maximum user weight of the treadmill. The taller you are, the longer your stride. The typical running deck length is 56 inches but the taller you are above 6 feet, the more you want to consider a 58 inch or even 60 inch deck.

How important are training programs?

Some runners just want to get on the treadmill, set the speed and go for a set time. Others prefer the variety and guidance in workouts or want to focus on specific types of cardio training. Some manufacturers have ability to upload additional programs to keep you motivated. Increasingly treadmills include heart rate programs. By using a wireless chest strap, the treadmill will automatically adjust speed to keep your intensity in a selected training zone.

Looking for extra features?

Treadmills come with a wide variety of extra features that can make a workout more manageable and maintain motivation. Extra features can include water bottle holders, adjustable cooling fans, reading racks and docking stations for MP3/Ipod player which plays through speakers in the console. Contact grips for checking your pulse rate is becoming common place on most but the lowest end treadmill models. Select those extras that matters to you.

Use Treadmill Reviews

Last use online treadmill reviews to help you with your research. The information is valuable and you will likely also be able to compare prices from many different sites.