Running Machines and Home Gym Treadmills
Whether you are training specifically for a running event, recovering from an injury, looking to lose some weight and improve general fitness or hoping to increase your cardiovascular endurance for another sport then a treadmill may well be the solution alongside your strength training routine.
With top speeds of up to 22km/h and up to 15% incline we have models that suit a wide variety of fitness goals and training environments from beginners starting out at home to full commercial premises with multiple users or elite athletes.
How Do I Compare Treadmills?
To effectively compare treadmills, you should note the following features;
- Size of running area – Taller and faster runners would benefit from a larger running area so that they can run naturally with a full stride length.
- Horsepower of motor – More powerful motors provide quicker and smoother transitions between speeds, greater consistency when operating at an incline and are more likely to last longer under heavier use.
- Incline range – Including incline is a great way of making walks or runs more challenging and replicates the varied terrain of the outdoors.
- Speed range – If you are trying to set a PB or using the treadmill for HIIT training then a higher top speed will allow more challenge and versatility.
- Bluetooth capability – Connecting to running Apps via Bluetooth is a great way of monitoring progress and adding fun to the workout. All our models have the ability to connect to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
- Overall size – If space is limited then a suitable folding treadmill may be the solution.
- Cushioning – Cushioning reduces the amount of impact on your joints and is great for recovery runs for road runners.
- Weekly use guidelines and weight capacity – To ensure the treadmill performs at its best and lasts for many years it is important you select the correct machine for the intended volume of use.
What Quality Treadmill Do I Need?
Selecting the correct treadmill for the intended use will maximise performance and longevity.
- Our entry-level home treadmill is suitable for up to 7 hours of weekly use and has a weight capacity of 115kg. If you are aiming for longer sessions, upgrade accordingly. The folding function makes this a great space saving option.
- The mid-range home use treadmill also folds and offers suitability for 20 hours weekly usage with a greater weight capacity of 130kg. Even for a family of four, this equals five 1-hour sessions per person, per week.
- For PT studios, hotel gyms or more serious runners the semi-commercial RCM Pro would be recommended providing greater performance and durability with a user weight capacity of 180kg.
- For full commercial gyms and competitive runners, the commercial treadmill is most suitable with an AC motor offering a top speed of 22km/h and designed to withstand continuous use.
- Using a treadmill that does not offer a suitable weight capacity will put strain on the motor and can create a jerky motion as the motor struggles to keep the belt moving.
Walking Pads vs. Treadmills
Walking pads are flat conveyor belts used for gentle walking. They have smaller motors than running machines and lower top speeds. Some models will incline, but experts generally consider them less flexible than treadmills. Unless space is at a premium, choose one of our treadmills for a better workout.
Running machines are a great piece of fitness equipment and our range caters for all fitness levels.