A lot has been written about the health benefits of running and walking. But does everyone have the opportunity to do this outside the home, especially if the weather conditions are not favorable? The treadmill is an excellent solution to the problem. But that after a few days of classes, hunting for them "did not repel", such a simulator should be chosen sensibly. So let's figure out how to do this, and start with the differences in the tracks in the engineering solution.
Mechanical tracks
The principle of operation is based on the fact that the blade rotates due to the user's efforts. A kind of "manual" management.
Advantages of
- Given the specifics of the design, it is clear that the pace of running( walking) is determined by the user.
- The absence of an electric motor significantly reduces the overall weight of the simulator.
- Accordingly, there is no consumption of electricity / energy.
- The cost is much lower than that of the "electrified" analogs.
Disadvantages of
- Since the feet constantly rotate the canvas, they experience an additional load. People who have health problems( varicose veins, leg joint diseases and in some other cases) such treadmills are contraindicated.
- Minimum of software. As a rule, control only a few parameters - time, speed, kilometer, pulse, calories burned.
Electric tracks
The product design includes an electric motor. Advantages of
- A variety of options( programs).There are several standard ones, but there is a possibility of setting one's own, according to individual parameters. In this regard, such simulators are universal.
- The legs are less stressed( and therefore not so tired) due to the fact that the web is moved by the motor.
Disadvantages of
- You'll have to run or go according to the chosen program, adjust to it( if this can be considered a disadvantage, given the flexible settings).
- Quite high price models( from 19 000 rubles).
General criteria for the selection of the treadmill
Power of the electric motor
There is often a substitution of concepts. The user should be interested in working power, and not the maximum( peak), which is often indicated on the price tags. And it is selected in accordance with the weight of a particular person. If the track will be used by all members of the family, then you need to focus on the most overweight.
Specifications of the blade
Dimensions .The main criterion of length and width is not only convenience for a particular user, but also his sensations. Someone does not like bottlenecks, someone will not like a too short path. So here an important factor is personal perception. Only then will the lessons be fun. The average recommended parameters are 1.2 m( d) x 0.4 m( w) .
It makes no sense to choose a simulator with a longer or wider blade. To rotate it and the motor / motor must be of adequate power, hence, the price will be greater. In addition, for the overall track in a typical apartment is much more difficult to choose a location for installation.
Functionality and Control
- Method for adjusting the angle of the track. This is done for dosing the load. On some models it is carried out manually, on more expensive - automatically, from the panel.
- Maximum speed. It is necessary to focus on the age of the practitioner. It is unlikely that an elderly person will need a large range.
- Lock the track. This function should be for electric simulators. If the practitioner, for example, fell( stumbled, it became bad), then the mechanism should immediately shut down.
- Location of the sensors. In some models, they are mounted directly on the handrails( pulse measurement), others are mounted on the person( usually on the earlobe).Such nuances are at the discretion of the user, as it is more convenient.
Manufacturers are constantly improving the designs of their products. Therefore, a set of options for a particular model should be specified by its passport.
To what extent is the
serviced? A more perfect model, naturally, is better and more convenient. But is it possible to perform all operations independently? After all, the components need periodic care. If you invite masters, how much do you have to pay for their services? The question is far from idle.
Warranty
The warranty period is one thing. It is also important who and how will carry out technical support. Is there a corresponding service center in the given locality? All these moments need to be clarified immediately.
Overview of models
There are tracks of different manufacturers on sale, the assortment is large. The most famous ones are WNQ, Atemi, Kettler, DFC, Brumer, Torneo and others. Here are a couple of examples of budget treadmills:
DFC-M585
Foldable electric model with cushioning system. The weight of the trainee is up to 110 kg. Cloth - 1,2 x 0,42( m).The tilt angle is adjusted manually, the pulse measurement sensor is located on the handle. Controlled parameters - distance, speed( up to 14 km / h), consumed calories. Dimensions: 1.56( e) x 0.71( w) x 1.28( in) in "m" at a weight of 39 kg.
The price is from 21 500 rubles.
Brumer TF-801
Mechanical folding track with canvas 1,03 x 0,35( m).The model is simpler - the angle adjustment and the programming function are not available. Speed - up to 10 km / h, except for it, measured calories and distance traveled. Dimensions 1.15( d) x 0.6( w) x 1.15( c) with a weight of 22.5 kg.
The price is from 6 350 rubles.
Useful advices
- Before you go to the store, it's worth to try yourself on the acting track. It can be done in a fitness club, though it should be noted that in solid clubs Life Fitness treadmills are installed, that only a few can afford. Go to a simple "courtyard" club - as a rule, they have several different simulators installed, that's why it will be easy to choose the optimal model, according to your taste.
- Choosing a model for power, you need to take into account and the load that has on the canvas engaged. Therefore, this parameter of the motor / motor is determined with a certain margin.
- In order not to overpay for those functions of the simulator, which will remain unclaimed, you must carefully read all its "services".
- If there is a need to reduce the burden on the spine, knees, then you should focus on models with a depreciation system.
