Overview
Using a treadmill to exercise can provide regular cardiovascular exercise and improve balance and gait. Treadmills range from from simple self-powered treadmills to expensive electric models. Deciding which one is best is in part determined by individual likes and dislikes, but some basic issues need to be taken into consideration before purchasing any treadmill.
Overview
Both self-powered treadmills and electric treadmills are large machines that consist of a console, handlebars and a belt that moves along a platform. They provide a surface to walk or run on and fall under the category of cardiovascular or aerobic exercise machines. Treadmill exercise helps with weight loss and mobility. Treadmills are an option when the weather prevents exercising outdoors or if balance issues or injuries make walking on uneven surfaces difficult.
Identification
Self-powered treadmills require the user to physically push the belt to make it move. The belt on electric treadmills moves at a constant speed. Self-powered treadmills are often cheaper to buy and maintain, and some fold up to store under the bed or in a closet. Motorized treadmills tend to be larger and heavier. However, size and price should not be the only factors. The American Council on Exercise suggests that the primary concern should be how comfortable it is to use and that it provides adequate cushioning.
Considerations
Choosing the right treadmill is essential, particularly if a physical disability or medical condition affects the ability to walk or maintain balance. For some, motorized treadmills running at even the slowest speed can be too fast, and can be dangerous. On the other hand, according to the Mayo Clinic, self-powered treadmills can be too difficult to push. One option is a motorized treadmill that has a safety clip that attaches to the user. If the user gets too far back on the belt or loses balance, the clip pulls out of the machine and the machine automatically stops.
Advantages of Electric Treadmills
Having to push a manual treadmill may make the muscles work more, but may make it harder to get the heart rate up to a level that makes the workout truly cardiovascular. A motorized treadmill forces the user to keep up at a steady pace, which may provide for better aerobic conditioning. In addition, electric treadmills have more detailed consoles, which can give feedback on distance traveled and calories burned. Some consoles keep track of results over a period of time. This feedback can provide the motivation needed to keep working out.
Features
According to the American Council of Sports Medicine, no matter what type of treadmill is purchased, there should be sturdy handrails and safety bars. It is always best to try out various models to see which one feels best. Manual treadmills tend to have shorter belts, which can make taking long strides or running difficult, and the muscle force required to push the belt can over time strain the muscles. The most important consideration is finding a model that is easy to use.
About this Author
Lori Newell of Living Well Yoga and Fitness holds a master’s degree in health promotion. She is a certified personal trainer and yoga instructor. Newell has taught classes for the general public and those with chronic illness for 25 years. She has four books and writes for many sites and magazines, including the “International Journal of Yoga Therapy.”
