How do I Choose the Best Folding Treadmill?

There is much to consider when shopping for the best folding treadmill. Factors to consider are the power of the motor, stability, size, special features or gadgets, price and warranty. Purchasing a folding treadmill that fits your fitness needs can give you a great addition to your home gym.

There are manual and motorized folding treadmills on the market. Manual treadmills can be appealing because of their small size and lower price. These treadmills can be difficult to use and often are less sturdy than a motorized alternative.

A motorized folding treadmill might be the better choice because it is easy to use and has many more options for incline and speed control. When buying one of these treadmills, be sure to get one with a motor that will not wear out. Look for the continuous duty horsepower to get an accurate size of the motor. A motorized treadmill should have a continuous duty horsepower between 1.5 and 2.5.

Testing a folding treadmill to ensure its stability is important to do before you buy it. Your folding treadmill should feel sturdy when you are walking or running on it. The treadmill should never shake or jiggle when you are using it. A test walk also will help you be sure that the belt is wide enough and long enough.

A treadmill that folds usually is a very compact treadmill. It can be a space saver, especially in comparison to a non-folding treadmill. Even a folding treadmill takes up room, so be sure to choose where the treadmill will go in your home and measure your space before purchasing it. Remember to leave enough space for when the treadmill is unfolded and in use.

Each treadmill has its own list of special features and gadgets. Some features you might want in a treadmill are a pulse monitor, crosswalk arms, preset workouts, a water bottle holder and a book rack. Many treadmills have a digital display that gives information such as calories burned, time and distance. Most motorized treadmills have a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour (4.4 meters per second), but some do have higher speeds available.

Price depends on the treadmill's brand, size and features. You can research cost at many online retailers or physical stores that sell sports equipment or other fitness merchandise. It also is important to get a folding treadmill with an extended warranty. Treadmills can be expensive, and a warranty will protect your investment.