Treadmill Buyers Guide

Since 1990, home treadmills have outsold every other piece of fitness equipment on the market. For good reason too. Studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association show treadmills burn more calories per hour than any other piece of fitness equipment tested. Throw in the convenience factor-no foul weather, mad dogs, strangers or potholes-and you've got an ideal solution for successful home fitness.

ProForm has treadmills to fit any budget and meet your needs whether you are a walker, jogger, or are training for a marathon. Below we have listed guidelines that will help you select the perfect ProForm treadmill to meet your fitness goals. First off, the most important components to look for when buying a treadmill are the motor and deck size. With a large motor, comes a smoother, more enjoyable workout. A large deck allows for a more natural, more comfortable run. If you are going to invest in a treadmill get the largest motor and deck that your budget allows.

What makes a great runner's treadmill?

• If you are a runner, look for a treadmill that has at least a 2.5 CHP motor.
• If you are tall or a runner, look for a treadmill that has at least a 55 x 20 inch deck. This allows you to be able to take long comfortable running strides.
• Unless you are training for a 5 minute mile, a treadmill that goes 10 MPH is adequate.
• The cushioning on your machine is important based on your workout style. To accommodate most runners, ProForm has four different cushioning systems
• • ProTech 3" Adjustable Cushioning - Allows you to adjust your cushioning to fit your running style. Also reduces impoact by up to 33%.
  • ProStride" Impact-Reducing Cushioning - Reduces the impact on your joints by up to 20%.
  • ProSoft" Cushioning - Impact Reducing Cushioning reduces impact on your joints by up to 22% as compared to road running with this superior absorption system, delivering the perfect balance of comfort and joint protection.

What makes a great walking/jogging treadmill?

• Save money and buy a treadmill with a 1.75 to 2.0 CHP motor.
• If you plan to walk, a deck size of 50 x 16 inches will meet your performance needs.
• Cushioning isn't as important for walkers as it is for runners, however, ProForm is well known for its many different styles of cushioning that reduct joint impact whether you want to walk or run.

All ProForm treadmills can handle users up to 300 lbs, however, it is always a good idea to look for a treadmill with the following if you are over 225 lbs:

• A treadmill that has at least a 3.0 motor.
• Durable treadbelt. All ProForm treadbelts are 2-ply which means they are thick and durable. They are also "quiet" treadbelts that reduce the noice allowing you to listen to your iPod or TV.
• High quality cushioning is key to limiting joint and back pain.
• • ProTech 3" Adjustable Cushioning - Allows you to adjust your cushioning to fit your running style. Also reduces impoact by up to 33%.
  • ProStride" Impact-Reducing Cushioning - Reduces the impact on your joints by up to 20%.
  • ProSoft" Cushioning - Impact Reducing Cushioning reduces impact on your joints by up to 22% as compared to road running with this superior absorption system, delivering the perfect balance of comfort and joint protection.

What features to consider when buying a ProForm treadmill:

• Features are an important commodity for your treadmill because they make working out more enjoyable and it passes the time by. It has been shown that people workout longer by having entertainment and personal workouts on their treadmill. ProForm is famous for innovation and the advanced features on each machine. Here are the top ProForm features to consider when buying a ProForm Treadmill:
• • TV
  • iPod/MP3 compatible with high quality speakers
  • Workout programs designed by personal trainers
  • Workout fans to keep you cool
  • Cushioning to reduce joint impact
  • Heart rate monitors to provide quick and accurate readings.
  • SpaceSaver® design to reduce storage space when your workout is through
  • High resolution displays to track your workout statistics
  • Fitness journals help you track your fitness progress over time