Treadmill FAQs

Treadmill FAQs For New Users

When it comes to finding an appealing new piece of at-home exercise equipment, the treadmill is one of the first that comes to mind.

Many novice users and dieters see the treadmill is something simple and easy to use. It doesn’t have all the movement of elliptical or effort of a rowing machine.

However, this idea of simplicity seems to disappear when buyers browse the options available.

There are lots of high-end, high-performance machines, and it all gets a little confusing. What exactly do they do? How user-friendly, and apartment-friendly are they? Can users have an intense workout or a simple jogging session. Here are some important treadmill FAQs to help you understand these new machines.

1) Can I enjoy HIIT training with this treadmill?

This is a great way to ensure that newcomers get the most out their training session – as long they have the cardio and experience to handle this sort of workout. There are two ways to enjoy HIIT with a good treadmill. The first is to manually alter the speed and intensity to hit those short burst of energy, and those softer moments of cooling down. This requires a machine with the right amount of settings on the speed and incline.

Ideally, these controls will be built into the handrail for convenience. Then there is the option of treadmills with HIIT programmes built in. This can be more convenient, but also more expensive. Whichever the method, the treadmill also needs a good console with clear data to make the most of the session.

2) What about novice users in the family? Is there room for progression here? 

It isn’t all about HIIT training with these top running machines for the apartment. There are lots of different ways to workout and achieve goals. Some people just want to get moving a little more each day – so a simple walking motion on a smooth belt is fine.

Others can jog as a steady pace. Progression comes from the speed of the belt and the incline. The wider the range, the greater the scope for improvement in the future. There will also be different pre-set programmes that may tackle different needs. They include fat burning programmes or other goals.

3) I have joint and mobility issues. Can I be sure that this machine is suitable for my needs? 

This is a great question for many people that are intimidated by some of the more intense machines that are available right now. Some seem so fast and high-end that they wont be suitable for those with mobility issues, joint problems or other issues. This isn’t necessarily the case.

There are many brands that understand the need to appeal to those looking to rehab an injury, or make improvements to fitness in a low-impact manner. The best treadmills will provide a soft, cushioned belt with shock absorption to protect joints. Many also have soft padding on the hand rails and an emergency stop key, to clip onto your clothing.

4) This treadmill boasts about WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Why is this so important?

WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity will appeal to some users more than others. There are some people that like the idea of switching off from tech and the outside world during their workout.

Others like to be connected to media to improve the experience. This is seen in different ways across different machines.

Some use WiFi connections and Google to create running routes and other interesting programmes that are more personalised and customisable. WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity also means greater connections to phones and tablets. This means links to music playlists and phone calls.

5) It also mentions a media shelf. What is this, and how does it benefit me? 

This simple addition to the running machine is pretty useful tool that nearly every treadmill will offer now. It is right next to the water bottle holder in terms of helpful additional hardware.

This is shelf to rest some form of media – typically a tablet of other mobile device. This means that users can work out during an episode of their latest box set. Think of it as either motivation or bribery. An hour’s walk during an hour of Game of Thrones. A 20 minute run while laughing at The Office. Alternatively, owners can use this for books or magazines. It all depends what will help with the workout the most.

6) This is all entertaining, but how can I make sure I am safe on this machine?

Safety is obviously just as important as entertainment with your new exercise equipment. The best models will have some of the following features and adaptations to help. In addition to the safety key mentioned above, there is the water bottle holder for hydration, all that cushioning and a sturdy build.

These treadmills shouldn’t wobble during a high impact run. Some will also have safety features built into the programming, while monitoring speed and heart rate. Most brands work hard to make users feel comfortable but, if a machine doesn’t feel safe, return it.

7) What happens after the workout? Can I put this away, or does it have to stay out in the living room?

The answer to this question depends on the build and appeal of the machine. There are some machines that are so big and secure that once they are in place, they aren’t going anywhere else. It helps to chose an appropriate permanent location from the start, like a home gym or garage area.

Others have helpful folding mechanisms and transport wheels that allow for storage – or at least lower the profile a little. Ideally, this means a soft drop hydraulic – nothing too difficult.

 

As you can see from these treadmill FAQs, these modern machines aren’t always scary and inaccessible. There is a lot to gain from these machines, regardless of ability and experience. It just takes a little time to get to know the machine and its capabilities. Most of the best treadmills around today are diverse, clever and interesting, while still appealing to everyday users.