Durability
You should expect your treadmill to last for decades. You need to look for a machine that has a solid steel frame, high quality rollers to power the running belt and a motor that is powerful enough to meet the demands of your workouts.
Weight Limit
The weight limit on a treadmill will give a good indication of its strength and durability. You should buy a treadmill with at least a 300 lb max user weight, with 400 lbs being the ideal.
The weight limit on the NordicTrack T6.5 Si is 300 lbs.
Stride Length
The treadmill should allow you to walk, jog or run with your natural stride and gait. If it doesn’t, you will feel constricted and your long term gait and balance will be compromised. The ideal treadmill belt size is 20 inches in width by 60 inches in length.
Comfort
If your workout is not comfortable, you are not going to keep doing it. When it comes to treadmill training, comfort involves having side rails for support, easy access to console controls and having an emergency stop button. The treadmill should also provide a good level of cushioning (triple ply is best) to reduce stress on the ankle, knee and hip joints.
Treadmill Size
Think about the size you have available for your treadmill training. Are you going to have to pack the treadmill away after every use or can it remain in place permanently? If you are going to store the machine away, you will want it to be foldable to fit under a bed or in a cupboard. It should also come with wheels for easy transportation.
Look for such extra features as a secure tablet holder, a fan that is built into the console, water bottle holder, incline and decline running belt ability and built-in workout programs.
Electricity
Does a treadmill use a lot of electricity? The more powerful the motor, the more electricity it will suck up. Check the level of electricity usage of the treadmill. You don’t want your exercise sessions to be bullying up your power bill.
Warranty
Any manufacturer worth our custom will stand behind their product with a quality warranty. The warranty conditions in the home fitness industry range from horrendous to outstanding. When it comes to buying a treadmill you should expect the following as a minimum:
- 10 years on frame
- 2 years on parts and electronics
- 1 year on labor