Last Updated 3 years ago
If you find yourself asking why you’d want to splash out on a running machine when you could just as easily run outside, there are a number of reasons.
The fact that all aspects of the workout can be chosen by the user make it easier on the body – particularly if your only outside option is running on the road.
On top of that, it’s a great calorie burner and allows you to push on with a workout when it’s pouring with rain, the sun has gone down or the pavements have totally iced over (which in England happens far more often than we’d like).
If you’ve got a multi-day hike ahead or you’re training for a marathon, a treadmill could be a great investment.
That said, they aren’t without their downsides. Running machines can be real bank-breakers if you choose one with all the bells and whistles. On top of that they are hefty pieces of equipment and not everyone has a spare room in the house to create their own gym setup.
Below we’ve pulled together some pros and cons to owning a treadmill. Have a read and decide whether a running machine will be a worthy addition to your workout equipment lineup.
- Having your own running machine allows you to avoid extortionate gym fees. This is a massive pro for those who may go weeks without actually making it to the gym.
- All aspects of the workout can be chosen by the user, including speed, incline, warm up/down period, calories, time, etc.
- Good machines provide dual shock suspension system and a soft running platform with cushioning, reducing the impact on your joints.
- Running is hailed as the best calorie-burner of any exercise. It is also a great way to increase bone density and stave off a variety of musculoskeletal issues.
- Newer running machines are incredibly smart, offering videos, coaching modes or just plain old television channels. Workouts can be tapered according to fitness, starting at a very slow walking pace and level gradient.
- As strength and endurance are developed, the treadmill can be used for jogging and/or interval training. And with so many running apps on the market, it’s like having a gym and personal trainer in your own home.
- Curve runners require no power outlet and burn even more calories than standard treadmills.
- There are plenty of treadmills that are space efficient and fold away easily.
- You can watch your favourite TV shows or blast music while you exercise.
- The treadmill has handrails, which is ideal if you’re recovering from an injury.
- Owning your own running machine creates an easy-to-access workout option, ideal for current times where gyms could shut down and social distancing restrictions could be amped up at short notice.
However, the convenience of jumping on a running machine also comes with a couple of downsides.
- Running machines can be extremely pricey pieces of equipment. Investing in a high-end option will allow access to quality construction and features but won’t be easy on the wallet.
- Affordable machines typically come with minimal settings/functions and max out around 10 kilometres per hour.
- The lightweight/smaller machines can’t be used for high intensity runs.
- Treadmills are generally heavy and hard to move solo. For the most part, once they’re up you’ll want to leave them that way.
- Periodic maintenance may be required and in case of equipment failure they can be tricky and/or expensive to repair.
Running machines vary in quality, design and additional features and they generally don’t come cheap.
So be realistic about how much you’re going to use it.
The more you use a treadmill, the better motor and sturdier construction it will need. If you’re planning to power walk whilst watching TV for example, you could opt for a lower end, foldable and portable treadmill.
If, on the other hand, you’re training for a marathon or plan to incorporate running into a daily workout, you will need to invest in a high quality treadmill from a reputable brand.
Yes, it might cost you almost double, but gym-standard treadmills are designed to undergo constant use and will last the average consumer a lifetime.
As with most workout gear, you really do get what you pay for.
And if you’re someone who struggles with workout inspiration, splashing out on a machine with pre-set programmes, classes/workouts or TV screens that connect to the internet will keep you motivated and entertained.
Other handy features to boost your training and performance are contact heart rate monitors, connectivity to smartphones or fitness wearables and extensive data readouts.
Before you rush into buying it, just double check you’ve got enough space at home. If you’re looking for something that can go in your living room or bedroom then choose something that can be folded up or stowed under a bed when not in use.
Be sure to check the machine’s dimensions – both folded/flattened and when constructed – before taking the plunge. To give you a rough idea, most running machine’s need a minimum of a single bed’s worth of room plus clearance at the back or sides to step on and off.