Comparison of 2011 Models from Sole Treadmills

Let’s start with the comparison chart:

Now let’s take a detailed look at some of the most important treadmill features.

Basic Treadmill Workout Features

These are the core features of Sole treadmills that affect the basics of your cardio running workout.

Running Surface

The Sole Treadmills have been upgraded for 2011! (F80 shown here with optional tv.)

There is more to the running surface than just the size. The construction of the deck is also very important. The F63 has a 1 inch phenolic deck that helps cushion your strides and lower the impact on your joints. This makes your running and walking easier on your body than exercising on asphalt.

Considerably better is the Whisper Quiet Cushion Flex Deck found on the sole F80 and F85 treadmills. As the name implies, proprietary Sole engineering has made this deck one of the quietest, smoothest moving, most durable decks of any treadmill. But even more important is the Sole Cushion Flex system which was designed specifically to provide a low-impact workout and reduce the stress on your spine, hips, knees, and ankles. In fact University researchers testing the Sole found it that it provided a 36% – 40% lower impact workout than walking or running on pavement.

The F63 deck comes with a 3 year warranty, while the F80 and F85 decks come with a lifetime warranty. So while the F63 is great, Sole is quite confident that the F80 and F85 decks will last forever and serve you a bit better.

Treadmill Speed, Pace

The top speed of treadmill is important, but few runners will be max out their treadmill at home. Speeds are typically given in miles per hour, but we find that most runners are more familiar with their pace rather than their speed. So, as you can see in the chart we’ve done the conversion math for you. These three treadmills range from a maximum pace of a 6 minutes per mile for the F63 to 5 minutes per mile for the F85. (If you are running more than a 5-minute mile, then you’re probably a professional athlete with a team gym and some super high end treadmills.)

One overlooked but nonetheless important statistic is the minimum treadmill speed. Due to their large, heavy flywheels, Sole treadmills have an amazingly slow low-end speed — 1 mph for the F63 and 1/2 mph for the other running machines. Why should you care? Because no matter how fast you walk or run, starting out slow is quite convenient and very safe. You don’t want to have to jump onto your treadmill while it’s already running at a quick pace. Starting and stopping slowly makes for an easier and safer workout.

Treadmill Incline

The incline is also a very important part of your workout. You can really turn up the effectiveness of fat burning exercises by using the incline. In fact, University of Georgia researchers found that running uphill works 9% more muscle with each and every stride as compared to running on a level track. And English researchers found that you need to set your treadmill incline to 1% to get the same workout as running on level ground outside — otherwise it’s like running downhill!

All the Sole treadmills come with an incline that raises up to 15%. And with Sole’s double horseshoe, all-steel welded frame, the incline is very solid and steady. You wont’ feel any rattle or shake and the treadmill will be just as stable at 15% incline as at 0% incline.. The only difference you’ll notice when the treadmill is raised is an increased intensity in your workout, and you’ll feel that fat melting away!

Features To Help You Get the Most From Your Workout

Beyond the basics, some treadmills certainly offer more than others. Some items are just bells and whistles that are “nice to have.” But some can really improve both the quality and the enjoyment of your treadmill workout.

Sole Treadmill Console: Message Board and Programmed Treadmill Workouts

All the Sole consoles feature 6 pre-programmed workouts and a message board.

They also include a really great message board feature that assists you in all stages of your workout. As you setup or program your workout, the message board will guide you with instructions – so there’s not need to hunt for the instruction manual. During your workout, the message board gives you feedback and instructions. And when your treadmill workout is complete, you’ll get a summary telling you how you did. Very handy!

All the displays come with 6 pre-programmed workouts so you can add some variety to your exercise regimen. That will help keep you interested and motivated to get the most out of your workouts. And if the pre-programmed treadmill workouts don’t meet the needs of your fitness goals, you can create 2 additional custom programs so that you can target fat burning, weight loss, endurance, cardio training, or anything you want. Depending on the program the display also allow you to chart you progress on a 1/4 mile track or see where you’ve been and where you are going on a peak and valley graph.

Heart Monitors and Heart Rate Cardio Workout

All the Sole treadmills come with two ways to monitor your heart rate. You get both pulse grip heart rate monitors and a wireless chest-strap heart rate monitor. The wireless monitor has a very impressive accuracy of 99.9%.

The F80 and F85 also come with 2 heart rate controlled programs that give you a very controlled cardio workout. You give the Sole treadmill your age, and it automatically calculates your safe target heart rate and then adjusts the speed and incline to reach and keep your target heart rate. This is a great feature not usually found in home treadmills in this price range.

Bells and Whistles: Armrest Speed Control, MP3 Speakers and Cooling Fans

Convenient Armrest Button Controls for Speed and Incline

The armrests have large, easy to press buttons that allow you to make on-the-fly adjustments to both the speed (on one armrest) and the incline (on the other armrest). This is very handy, because you can slow down or increase the intensity of work out during your workout without having to reach for the console and make adjustments from the various buttons there. It’s a great design.

Since many of us like to listen to music while we workout, the Sole treadmills come with built in speakers. These have a cord that you can plug into the headphone jack of your iPod or your favorite MP3 player. The fidelity of the speakers won’t break any nearby glasses or windows, but you’ll be able to rock your workout to your favorite tunes or listen to the latest podcast or your next audio book. And you won’t have to constantly adjust your ear buds or fiddle with armband or waist straps to hold your player.

The Soles also come with 2 built-in cooling fans. Again, if it’s a crazy hot and humid day, this won’t replace a good air conditioner. But they’ll certainly help keep you cooler while you sweat off those pounds or train for your marathon.

Treadmill Machine Details: Folding And Built To Last

All Sole Treadmills fold easily to save you space!

The top-notch engineering seen in the clever and solid folding design is carried throughout the entire treadmill. With an all-steel, welded (not bolted) frame, all the folding Sole treadmills are more stable than most non-folding models from other treadmill makers. And instead of simply painting the frames, they are finished with an epoxy powder that is baked right on.

The motors are all high torque, industrial quality machines with all-steel, zinc-coated, large diameter flywheels. The flywheels — not found in most other treadmills in this price range — make for a smoother spinning, vibration free running surface. And they increase the life of the motors — all of which come with a lifetime warranty.

The rollers used by Sole are larger in diameter than the industry average. Why do you care about the roller size? The larger rollers make for an even smoother movement of the running surface, and they extend the life of the belt. So bigger is better.

Warranty

The Sole warranty is top notch. A life time warranty on the frame, motor, and Whisper Quiet Cushion Flex Deck is proof that Sole has made these running machines well and they are willing to stand behind them. The 3 or 5 year warranty on other components and the 2 years labor on the F80 and F85 are unmatched by other manufacturers. Add all Sole owners we’ve heard from have been very satisfied with Sole customer service. So, in the unlikely event that you do have a problem with your treadmill, Sole will take care of you and get it fixed.

Wrap Up

That wraps up our 2011 model comparison and explanation of the Sole treadmill features. Have any questions? Are you a Sole owner who wants to share their experience? Let us know by leaving a comment below or by contacting us directly.

If you are ready to buy a Sole treadmill, check out our specific treadmill reviews of the F80 or F85, or visit our Fitness Superstore.

References:

• Men’s Health: “To Hill and Back”
• Sole Treadmills: “Sole Technology”
• Sole Treadmills: “F63 Treadmill”
• Sole Treadmills: “F80 Treadmill”
• Sole Treadmills: “F85 Treadmill”

Related posts:

1. Sole F80 Treadmill Review (2011 Model) – Free Shipping and Save $600 The Sole F80 Treadmill from Sole Fitness has made it onto our Best Buy list....

The Sole F80 Treadmill from Sole Treadmills has been upgraded for 2011 -- now it's a Best Buy! (Shown here with optional tv.)

Sole F80 Treadmill Improvements for 2011

As we said, Sole Fitness made some great improvements to the F80 for the 2011 model year. On top of a prior round of improvements they made in 2009, the F80 is now quite impressive. Let’s take a look.

Longer Running Surface — 60 Inches

The only complaint we’ve heard about prior F80 models was that at 55 inches long, the running surface was a little too short for runners who where either super fast or very tall. But Sole Treadmills must have been listening, because for the 2011 model, the Sole F80 Treadmill running surface has been extended to 60 inches. That now matches the length of the top-of-the-line Sole F85 Treadmill. (Although at 22 inches wide, the Sole F85 running surface is 2 inches wider than the F80). This should satisfy runners of all sizes and speeds, and the running deck length complaint should now disappear.

The 2011 F80 Treadmill Console has been nicely improved for 2011 -- including a message board.

Improved Sole F80 Display

Sole has also updated the display to a bright, beautiful 7.5 inch LCD. The blue-tinted display includes all the standard treadmill readouts and metrics, such as time, distance traveled, speed, incline, calories burned, heart rate, and running pace. But the new console also includes a cool 1/4 mile track display that lets you chart your progress on distance, and a helpful peak and valley graph that let’s you watch your workout rise to the next level as you climb up and down “hills” using the treadmill incline feature.

The F80 Display now also includes a scrolling message board. This very handy feature helps you before, during, and after your workout. Before your run, the display gives you instructions as you program and setup the workout. It’s like having the instruction manual in you hands all the time, without needing to flip through it and figure out which page to read. During your run, the message board gives you feedback and instructions about your treadmill workout. And when you are done, it gives you a workout summary so that you know how you are doing. Very helpful, just like high-end machines you find at the gym!

F80 Bells and Whistles: Speakers and Cooling fans

For 2011, Sole Treadmills kept some of the upgrades they gave the F80 for the 2009 model year. Those include an integrated sound system that keep you rockin’ (or listening to your favorite podcast or audio book) during your workout. The built-in speakers include a sound cable that you can plug into the headphone jack of your iPod or favorite MP3 player.

And to you keep you cool while you’re working through your favorite fat burning exercises, the Sole F80 treadmill sports 2 built-in cooling fans. While they are no substitute for cranking the air-conditioning on a super hot humid day, they will certainly help keep you from overheating. And naturally, there are 2 cup holders so that you can keep your water bottle handy and stay hydrated during your run.

Other Winning Features on the Sole F80

The 2011 and 2009 upgrades where made on top of an already winning design full of great features. That’s why Consumer Reports loves Sole Treadmills. They rated the F63 as a “Recommended ” treadmill because of Sole’s “Ease of Use,” “Ergonomics,” and “Construction.” All these factors apply equally well to the F80. (Consumer Reports has not not yet reviewed F80 or the F85 treadmill.) So here are more things to like about the Sole F80 treadmill.

With pre-programmed workouts and a wireless heart rate monitor, the Sole F80 Treadmill will give you a great workout.

6 Pre-Programmed and 2 Custom Treadmill Workouts

The Sole comes with 6 pre-programmed workouts to keep your runs interesting and engaging. And if you don’t like Sole’s programs or if you want even more diversity in your workouts, you can program 2 of you own custom workouts. How the heck do you do that? Well, as noted before, the message board built into the display will guide you through the process. And you’ll get feedback during your workout and a workout summary when you are done.

Cardio Workout Programs With Heart Rate Monitor

In addition to the 6 pre-programmed and 2 custom workouts, the F80 also includes 2 heat-rate control workouts. Using either the included wireless heart rate monitor — which boasts a reading accuracy of 99.9% — or the heart rate monitors built into the grip pulses, the F80 monitors your hart rate and keeps you in your target zone by automatically adjusting the speed and the incline. How does it know you target zone? You give it your age, and it automatically calculates your safe and effective target heart rate.

Quiet and Low-Impact Cushion Flex Shock Absorption Whisper Deck

The Sole F80 Treadmill comes with a Sole Treadmills’ Cushion Flex Shock Absorption Whisper Deck. That’s a mouthful. Let’s break it down into plain English and figure out what it means.

The most important feature is the Cushion Flex Deck. This special Sole Treadmills design provides a low-impact, joint friendly workout. The suspension system is specifically designed to reduce impact on your feet, your ankles, your hips, your spine, and your knees. Leading university researchers found that the Cushion Flex Deck provided a 36% lower impact workout compared to running or walking on pavement. That’s great news for anyone who is worried about negative impacts on their joints. (That should be everyone!)

The Whisper Deck includes a Phenolic coating that, combined with Sole’s proprietary engineering, gives you a quiet, smooth machine that is built to last. Some treadmills suggest flipping the the deck once you start to wear it out. You won’t need to that with a Sole Treadmill. If the deck ever wears out, they’ll replace it for free via the lifetime warranty. But don’t worry, it won’t wear out –that’s why they offer the warranty.
quiet, 35% better, etc.

Convenient Armrest Button Controls for Speed and Incline

Convenience and Safety

Is there more? You bet. The Sole F80 also includes a large stop switch and a stop safety key that you can attach to your clothing. So if you suddenly need to stop, you can do so easily and safely.

As another bonus, the F80 also include large armrest control buttons that allow you to easily adjust both the speed and the incline. This makes on the fly adjustments simple and easy, rather than having to awkwardly reach for the console and make the adjustments with the smaller buttons there.

Finally, the Sole F80 Treadmill is a folding treadmill, and it uses Sole Treadmills’ Easy Assist folding deck. The Sole engineers have made this feature incredibly easy and safe. When your work out is done, you can easily fold the treadmill, saving lots of space. Whether you have the treadmill in your large home gym or your tiny living room, you’ll appreciate the space savings. And when you are ready to go for a run, the Easy Assist will quickly, easily, and safely lower the treadmill deck so that it’s ready to use.

F80 Basic Info and F80 Warranty

This model has a 3.0 horsepower, high-torque, continuous duty motor that will run you from an easy start of -0.5 mph all the way to 11 mph. That’s a pace of 120 minute mile (crawling?) up to a racing speed of 5.5 minutes per mile. And like all Sole Treadmills, the F80 uses a heavy, all-steel zinc coated and balanced flywheel that gives you a vibration-free and secure running or walking surface. The flywheel is much heavier than any other flywheel in this price range, which gives the treadmill same high-quality feel as super high-end treadmills that cost several times the price of the F80.

The frame itself is an all-steel welded construction — no bolts that can come loose over time. And the frame is painted with an epoxy powder coating that is backed right in — so it will last without chipping or flaking like regular paint. The treadmill will safely support runners (or walkers) that weigh up to 350 pounds.

This machine is built well. And that’s why Sole Treadmills backs it up with an incredible warranty that surpasses any other warranty in this price range. The motor, deck and frame have a lifetime warranty, so you know they will last. The electronics, belt and rollers have a 5 year warranty. And the entire running machine warranty includes 2 years of in-home service. That’s unheard of in this price range!

With the high-end features, ease of use, and rock-solid warranty, the Sole F80 Treadmill can't be beat at this price.

Sole F80 Treadmill Pricing — Get Free Shipping and Save Over $600!

The suggested retail price of the 2011 F80 is $2,099. But if you order through Amazon, you can get the this treadmill for $1,499.99. That’s a savings of 25%. And with the free shipping that you get from either Amazon Prime or Amazon Super Saver Shipping, you’ll be saving over $600!!! That makes this treadmill purchase a no-brainer.

As always, we want to hear from you. Like (or dislike) our review? Do you own a Sole F80? Leave a comment below or contact us.

References:

• Treadmill Doctor: “Sole F80 Treadmill Review”
• Consumer Reports: “Sole F63″
• Sole Treadmills: “F80 Treadmill”
• Sole Treadmills: “Sole Technology
  “

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2. Sole Treadmills 2011 Models Comparison Running machines from Sole Treadmills are some of the best cardio workout machines that you...

F85 Treamill Running Machine From Sole Fitness

Features That Get You A Great Treadmill Workout

When it comes to running machines, it’s all about the workout. And the treadmill workout is where the F85 delivers with a rich set of features.

To get you moving, the Sole F85 treadmill goes up to 12 mph. That would get you running at a 5-minute-mile pace — if that’s not fast enough for you, then you’re probably a professional athlete with lots of other running workout options. You can add an incline of up to 15%, which will really kick up your treadmill workout to another whole level. Compared to running on a level surface, adding some simulated hills with the incline can activate almost 10% more muscle groups with every stride you take. So the incline is your friend.

The Sole F85 console features 6 pre-programmed workouts and a message board.

Convenient Armrest Button Controls for Speed and Incline

Additional Features For A Healthy Workout

All sole treadmills come with the built-in Cushion Flex suspension system built into the deck. This helps you get joint-friendly workout that provides a 35% lower-impact workout than running or walking on asphalt.

The F85 also comes with a wireless chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can make sure you are pushing yourself hard enough, but not too hard. The monitor is is rated to be 99.9% accurate. And if you are using one of the two built in heart heart rate control programs, the Sole will use your age to automatically calculate your target heart range and cater your workout accordingly. This will help you get a cardio workout that’s both safe and efficient.

Treadmill Bells and Whistles

The Sole F85 treadmill display console also includes a message board like the ones you see on super high-end running machines at the gym. The message board is a scrolling text board that assists you with setup and guides you through your workout. So if you are wondering how to customize one of the workouts, the message board will walk you through it with out needing to did out the user manual. You’ll get valuable feedback and guidance during your workout, and when your done the message board will give you a summary recap of your progress.

The Sole F85 Treadmill folds easily to save you space!

Unlike some of the lower-end Sole models, the F85 also sports built-in cooling fans and built in speakers. So you can plug in your iPod or favorite MP3 player and rock your workout without needing to fiddle with ear buds or headphones.

Sole F85 Treadmill is Built to Last — With a Great Warranty

Sole doesn’t save money by cutting corners. They build a solid treadmill and back it up with a fantastic warranty. The motor, deck and frame have a lifetime warranty and the electronics, belt, and rollers have a 5 year warranty. It’s all backed up with 2 years in-home labor service.

Talk about being built solid: the F85 sports a 3.5 horsepower continuous duty motor and the welded frame is all steel, enabling the treadmill to accommodate runners up to 400 pounds! The frame is welded, not bolted. And it’s finished with an epoxy powder coated paint that’s baked on, so it’s incredibly durable.

The 35″ by 80″ inch deck, with a 22″ wide by 60″ long running surface, should handle anyone. A large running surface like this can definitely be a strain on the motor, but at 3.5 hp this motor can easily handle it and you won’t have trouble with it burning out. Remember: they back up the motor with a lifetime warranty!

Sole Customer Service

The F85 is overwhelmingly popular with with 80% of respondents giving it their top rating. But as with any treadmill, it’s possible you might run into some problems with the Sole F85. That’s where customer service comes in. And Sole has fantastic customer service. We regularly see comments from Sole owners like “My experience with customer service was 100% positive.” and “Sole’s customer service is excellent.” The superb customer service combined with the bullet-proof warranty should help you sail through any problems — in the unlikely event that you have any.

Sole F85 Treadmill Price – Save $500

Sole’s suggested retail price for the F85 is $2,499 plus shipping. But if you can now buy it from Amazon for $1,999.99 with free shipping. This is a great deal that makes the Sole F85 one your best choices for a quality in-home cardio workout!

Do you already have a Sole F85? If so, let us know your experience by leaving a comment below or contacting us.

References:

• Men’s Health: “To Hill and Back”
• Sole Treadmills: “Sole Technology”
• Amazon: “Sole F85 Treadmill”
• Treadmill Doctor: “Sole Fitness Treadmill Reviews”

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1. Sole F80 Treadmill Review (2011 Model) – Free Shipping and Save $600 The Sole F80 Treadmill from Sole Fitness has made it onto our Best Buy list....

Elliptical vs. Treadmill: Which Should You Buy?

Elliptical Machine

Elliptical Machine Overview

Since their introduction in the 1990s, ellipticals have become increasingly popular. Like a strange marriage of a cross-country ski machine and a stair climber, elliptical trainers have foot pedals and moving arm handles that allow you to get a bull body workout exercising both your arms and your legs. The arm handles are similar to ski poles and move at the same time as the pedals. Some models allow you to turn the arm handles off. Ellipticals don’t have electric motors like a treadmill. Instead, they have a heavy flywheel with an adjustable tension strap that allows you to control how hard it is to pedal.

Ellipticals have a smooth, undulating, fluid motion and are relatively easy to use. For example, you need a much higher initial fitness level use a a cross-country ski machine, but you can start using an elliptical machine at any level. However, they still take a little getting used to. When you try an elliptical for the first time, the motion of pedals and arms may feel rather strange. But you’ll get used to it quickly and it will start to feel very natural.

Electric Treadmill

Electric Treadmill Overview

Treadmills have been around since the 1970′s and they are the most popular exercise machine. Like ellipticals, they will give you a great cardiovascular workout. Quite simply, they running machines — just like a moving sidewalk. An electric motor moves a wide belt and you must run or walk to stay in one place as the belt slides by underneath you. Most models include an incline feature which allows you simulate running or walking uphill. This works slightly different muscles and allows you to increase the intensity of your your exercise.

While some people may fear sliding off the end of the treadmill if they can’t keep up, electric treadmills are pretty easy to use. They typically include an stop button and an emergency stop key that you can attach to your clothing so that you can stop the treadmill quickly. They also include side rails to support you and keep you from falling sideways

What’s the Same: Similarities Between Treadmills and Ellipticals

Display Console

Elliptical vs. Treadmill: Which Workout Is Better?

So, which machine gives you a better workout and burns more calories? That’s the number one question people ask when comparing treadmills and ellipticals.

Older studies gave the workout edge to treadmills, showing that they burned the most calories. However, more modern studies have shown that treadmills and ellipticals both give you the same exercise benefits. For example, a University of Mississippi study found that elliptical workouts give you the same cardiovascular benefits as running on a treadmill. Similarly, researchers from the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse took a look at the physiological responses of people using various types of fitness equipment and they found that both treadmills and ellipticals provided substantially the same heart rate and oxygen consumption levels and burned the same number of calories.

But while the fitness results of both machines are the same, the workouts are not. The elliptical gives you more of a full body workout because you use both your arms and your legs. Although you can carry weights and swing your arms while you run or walk on a treadmill, it’s not quite the same as having a “built-in” upper body workout. An elliptical machine can also be pedaled in reverse so you can vary both the workout and the muscles that it targets. The treadmill allows you to adjust the incline and simulate hills, but that’s a less drastic shift in the muscles you target.

The difference in the workout may be a key reason for another difference: the Rate of Perceived Exertion. Most people who try both ellipticals trainers and electric treadmills find their perception is that the elliptical provides a more effortless workout. They feel the work out is easier or less intense, even though they are burning the same number of calories. Perhaps sharing the workload with your upper and lower body makes it feel easier. But whatever the reason, lower rate of perceived exertion might motivate you to follow through on your workout. We’ve all heard about “no pain, no gain,” but “less pain, same gain” can be a good motivator.

On the other hand, although the elliptical simulates running or walking, it’s not actually either one. The treadmill is a much closer approximation of real walking, hiking and running. So if your goal is to get in shape for a 5k, you’ll certainly want the treadmill over the elliptical. Similarly, if you prefer walking or hiking and using the treadmill to replace that exercise during bad weather or challenging schedules, then you’ll want to stick with a treadmill.

Ultimately, the quality of your workout and the corresponding benefits are influenced by the duration and intensity of your workout. If you work out equally hard on both machines, you’ll get the same fitness benefits. The lower perceived rate exertion on the elliptical may be a bonus, but you know best which machine is likely best to hold your interest and keep you motivated to push yourself.

Additional Health Benefits of Treadmill Workout vs Elliptical Workout

In addition to cardiovascular fitness, there are a few other considerations when assessing the differences between ellipticals and treadmills.

The elliptical is a much lower impact workout than the treadmill. Treadmills do typically include some cushioning that limits the impact as compared to running on concrete or asphalt. But running on a treadmill is still a high-impact activity and it can be hard on your knees, shines, ankles, back, and joints. Ellipticals on the other hand were invented specifically to create a low-impact approximation of running. This difference has been born out in many studies. For example, the same researchers from that University of Mississippi study who found that ellipticals provided the same cardio workout as treadmills also found that ellipticals did this with a much lower impact and strain on joints. So an elliptical is a good choice if you are recovering from an running injury of if you have other conditions that could be negatively affected by a high-impact activity like treadmill running.

You should note, however, that while the high-impact of the treadmill might be tough on you joints, such activities do help to promote better bone health and have been shown to help protect against osteoporosis. The elliptical trainer is a weight-bearing exercise, so it will also promote healthy bones much more than other cardio exercise such as swimming or biking. But the constant pounding of the treadmill will do it a bit better.

Space and Noise

Before you buy an elliptical or a treadmill, you need to make sure you have space for it! They are big machines and can easily take up as much space as dining room table or a good sized sofa. If space is a problem, many treadmills fold when not in use. Of course, you’ll still need the full amount of space to work out. But you you are done, you can fold up the ramp and save some space. Ellipticals typically do not come in folding models.

If noise is an issue, ellipticals are usually a little quieter than treadmills because they don’t have an electric motor. But the noise of either machine depends a lot on the manufacturer and the model. So you should try one out before you buy it and make sure the noise level is acceptable.

Treadmills vs Ellipticals: Which Cost Less

There is a wide range of pricing for both treadmills and ellipticals. You can get cheap treadmills and cheap elliptical trainers, or you can spend a small fortune. But like you’ve heard before, you usually get what you pay for.

Consumer Reports took a look at both elliptical machines and treadmills and found that you need to spend at least $2,000 to get a quality machine that will hold up to to serious workouts. Cheaper machines feel flimsy and shaky and are much more prone to defects and breakdown. While these issues might be covered by warranties, you will likely waste a lot of time and energy tracking down the manufacturer and coordinating the repairs. And once the warranty expires, you are out of luck.

Once you hit the $2,000 range, any quality treadmill or elliptical from a good manufacturer will serve you equally well. So price should not be a consideration when deciding between these two types of machines.

The one exception is for walkers. If you plan to walk on your treadmill instead of running, then it’s OK to buy one of the cheaper treadmills. You won’t give it as much of a beating and the flimsy, shaky feel of lesser models will be minimized if you are only walking. Just make sure that you are happy to stick with walking. If you plan to start walking but then move up to running, you should get started with a better model that will work well for both activities.

Treadmill vs. Elliptical: The Verdict

So, as with most things, you have to make this decision yourself. If you’ve read through the article and still don’t know which machine to buy, here’s a summary of our elliptical vs treadmill comparison:

When You Might Prefer A Treadmill

• You are most interest only in hiking or walking — you can save some money by buying a less expensive model
• You are a serious runner or trying to become one
• You have limited space and would benefit from a folding treadmill

When You Might Prefer An Elliptical

• You need (or prefer) a low-impact workout that’s easier on your joints
• You want to include both an upper and lower body workout
• You think you’ll be more motivated by the variety and lower perceived rate of exertion of an elliptical

In the end, perhaps the most important factor in deciding which machine to buy is evaluating which one will give you the most motivation to use it and work hard. If youf elliptical or treadmill sits in the corner gathering dust, then it doesn’t matter which one you buy!

References:

• Consumer Reports: “Elliptical Guide”
• Men’s Health: “Blast Fat with Exercise Machines”
• Mayo Clinic: “Are elliptical machines better than treadmills for basic aerobic workouts?”
• LIVESTRONG.com: “Treadmill Vs. Elliptical Trainer”

No related posts.

So, you’ve decided that you want to buy a treadmill. But as you start to shop for one, you quickly realize that they can be pretty expensive. Sure, there are some really cheap treadmills out there, but will they last? And do they have the features that you want? As you add quality and features, the prices go up quickly. One way to get a quality treadmill at a reasonable price is to buy it used. But should you buy a used treadmill?

Reasons To Buy a Used Treadmill

Obviously, the number one reason is to save money. But there is much more to it than just pinching pennies. The money you can save by buying a used treadmill might make difference between actually buying one or deciding that you can’t afford it. And of course, you’re much better off buying one, since it’s a great way to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you are looking to burn fat, lose weight and get in shape, or simply maintain your current fitness level, the convenience of having a running machine at home can make the difference between working out regularly and not working out at all.

And by buying your electric treadmill used can get you a lot more for your money. You can get the extra quality of a machine that will last. And you can get the bells and whistles found in higher end running machines — which might add just the motivation you need to really enjoy and look forward to your treadmill workouts. And that’s what it’s all about: staying motivated and working out at the highest exercise level that you can. No piece of exercise equipment is going to help you stay fit if you don’t use it on a regular basis.

Used Treadmills You Should Consider

So, what kind of used treadmills should you consider? Although it might be obvious, the best used treadmills are the ones that have had the least amount of use. You want to buy one from a person who bought it as the result of an optimistic New Year’s resolution to lose the holiday weight they gained, but then never used it past the end of January. You want the treadmill that has been being used as an en extra closet hanger or coat rack. You want the treadmill that hasn’t been turned on in months.

You also want a quality treadmill that has the features you want and need. It won’t do you any good to buy a really low quality treadmill. Even if it hasn’t been used much, at worst it’s likely to break down on you quickly and at best it simply may not be able to provide the quality treadmill workouts that you need.

Ideally, you also want to buy a treadmill locally so that you can see it, touch it, and try it out yourself. It’s possible to buy one online and have it shipped to you, but unless the seller can make you confident that it’s in good shape, you won’t know about any problems until it’s too late. If you can take it for a test run — literally — then you’ll be much more confident that it’s in the condition that you want. Also, if you able to meet the seller face-to-face and possibly even pick it up yourself, you may be able to haggle a bit and negotiate an even better price.

Another good option for a used treadmill is a refurbished treadmill purchased from a second hand store like Play It Again Sports. Such stores will often check out the treadmill for you and offer you a warranty. Having a decent warranty is certainly a good way to feel more confident about your purchase.

Used Treadmills You Should Avoid

While there are lots of good options for buying a good used treadmill, there are plenty of used treadmills that you want o avoid. To state the obvious again, don’t buy one that you know has gotten tons of use. Don’t by a treadmill from the super fitness couple that likes to brag that they each spend an hour on the treadmill every day of the week. Similarly, don’t buy one from a gym. While it might be a super high quality treadmill, it was likely used 8-12 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Also, don’t buy one from the person who is “upgrading” to a better model. If the treadmill isn’t good enough for them, it’s probably not good enough for you, either.

How To Evaluate Used Treadmills

There are number of things you should look at when you are looking at a specific treadmill and deciding whether or not to buy it. Check out the other articles in our Used Treadmill Buying Guide for tips and advice on what to look for and what to avoid. If you go about it wisely and thoughtfully, you can save a bundle and get a great workout, all at the same time!

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You can get a great deal on a treadmill by buying a used one. But you have to be careful that you are getting a quality machine that will last — you want to avoid used treadmills that are at the end of their life. When deciding whether or not buy a specific machine, there are a few important treadmill features that you must be sure to check before you buy it and get it home. Use these tips to evaluate a used treadmill before you buy it, and you’ll increase the chances that your purchase is a good one.

First, Find Out How Much Treadmill Has Been Used

It’s important to find out how much the treadmill has been used. Ask the current owner how much they used it and why they want to sell it. Many people are overly ambitious about their home exercise plans and soon find themselves with expensive equipment they’ve never used. That’s the perfect person from whom to buy. On the other hand, if they used it for an hour every day for the last five years, then you might want to think twice about buying that one.

Once you feel comfortable that the treadmill hasn’t been used to it’s breaking point, check out the following items to help you assess how much life is left in it.

1. Check Out the Treadmill Motor

It’s very important to make sure the treadmill’s motor is still in good shape. After all, it’s an electric treadmill! Run the treadmill all the way from warm-up to maximum speed. It might get a little louder as the speed increases, but it shouldn’t get too much louder. And it should sound just as smooth at every level. You don’t want to hear any new noises or thumps as the speed increases.

Once you’ve tried it with no one on it, turn it off, get on it yourself, and try it out starting at warm-up speed. (You should definitely have brought your running shoes with you to check out the treadmill.) Crank it to whatever top speed you feel you can safely handle. Make sure the motor still sounds good at all the speed levels.

2. Check Out the Treadmill Belt

The next most important feature is the belt. With the treadmill off, inspect it carefully all the way around and check for any fraying –especially around the edges on both sides. Watch it carefully at higher speeds and check for sliding or skipping. If you see it sliding or skipping, don’t buy it. A skip at high speed can be very dangerous because it might cause you to slip or trip. You could get really hurt if that happens. Also check to make sure the belt is not rubbing against the frame anywhere. It likely won’t be worth the time or money to fix it if you find that the belt needs to be replaced. This is a treadmill running machine, and without the belt you won’t be running anywhere!

3. Test the Incline

Don’t buy a treadmill without an incline. The incline offers many benefits from burning more calories to building more muscle. The steeper the incline, the more you’ll build and tone your calf, thigh, and buttocks muscles. In fact, University of Georgia researchers found that each stride of running uphill works 9% more of your muscles than the same stride and effort at a level run. And if you’re still not convinced, researchers in England discovered that if you want to match the energy required to run on a flat, level surface outside, you need to set your treadmill incline at 1% incline. Otherwise, it’s like running downhill.

So, be sure to check out the incline! Your treadmill should go up to at least 10% incline — preferably a little bit more. As the treadmill moves up, make sure it goes smoothly with out bumping or jerking. Test it while the treadmill is running at a moderate to high speed, both with and without you on it.

4. Test the Display

The final important piece to test is the display. First, be sure that the display is practical and easy to use. Can you read the displays well? Does it clearly show the time, speed and incline? Are there easy-to-use buttons to set the time and manually adjust the speed and incline?

Does this electric treadmill have pre-programmed workouts? Pre-programmed treadmill workouts automatically adjust the speed and incline to target your specific workout goals, such as losing weight, burning fat, or building endurance. This variety can be a great way to keep your workouts interesting and fun, which will hopefully help keep you motivated. If the treadmill has pre-programmed workouts, briefly try a few of them. (You won’t have time to run the full workouts.)

While you look at the display, check it for signs of wear or damage. Used treadmills can take a real beating on the display from dripping sweat and spilled beverages. While it’s OK if the surface of the display is a bit scratched, make sure that the electronic part of the display is clear and bright. If it’s hazy or foggy, there might be sweat or spilled drinks getting into the display and damaging it.

Be Happy With Your Treadmill Running Machine

Buying a used treadmill can really be a great way to save some money. But remember, this treadmill will be your running machine, and you want to make sure that you will be happy and satisfied using it for running. So check it it carefully and make sure you’ll be happy with it. Can you live with a broken cup holder if it saved you a bundle? Or will you be annoyed every time you see it? Are the buttons easy to use, or will they frustrate you and prevent you from enjoying your workouts. You don’t want anything that might zap your motivation. And of course, you want it to last — a broken treadmill won’t give you a workout! So use these tips to help increase the odds that you’ll make a good choice and be happy with your purchase. No matter how good a deal you get, it’s still going to cost you a fair amount of time, effort, and money — so go about it thoughtfully and well informed.

References:

• Runner’s World: “Buying A Used Treadmill”
• eHow: “How to Buy a Used Treadmill”
• LIVESTRONG.com: “Benefits of Incline Treadmills on the Muscles”
• Men’s Health: “To Hill and Back”
• Consumer Reports: “Treadmill Guide – Treadmill Features”

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Everyone likes to save money. And buying a used treadmill can be a real money saver. But be careful, or you might end up stuck with a piece of junk that you can’t use and can’t easily lose — a treadmill won’t fit in your trashcan and you’ll likely have to pay (again) to get rid of it if it breaks or runs too poorly. Use these 5 tips to make sure you make a smart purchase.

1. Only Buy a Good Model From a Reputable Brand

Low end machines are cheap for a reason. Don’t get stuck with someone else’s bad purchase. Make sure you buy a good model from a reputable brand.

What treadmill brands are reputable and what models are good? Ask a knowledgeable person at your local gym or do some research online. (But be careful to avoid online sites that get paid for referrals to specific manufacturers.) Consumer Reports likes models from Sole, NordicTrack, Livestrong, Horizon, Precor, Landice, PaceMaster, AFG, Vision, Proform, Gold’s Gym, and Life Span.

If in doubt, don’t get snookered by the bells and whistles. As a rule of thumb, look for an electric treadmill with a 1.5 continuous horsepower motora and a good suspension system. That’s what will server you best. If it also has a lot of other features, great. But those are the two most important features.

2. Ask a Lot of Questions — And Make Sure You Get the Right Answers

Don’t be shy. Even if you are getting a good price, you’re still spending a lot of money. Here are questions to ask about your spiffy new-to-you treadmill running machine:

• Why are you selling it?
  “Upgrading to better model” is a bad answer. “Never used it and need the money” is what you’d like to hear.
• How often was the treadmill used?
  Almost never is better than 40 minutes/day.
• How many people have owned the treadmill?
  1 is the best answer.
• Where was the treadmill kept?
  Living room or bedroom is better than musty basement that flooded last spring.

If you are buying from a store, you should also ask these questions:

• Is there a warranty?
  Some stores like Play It Again Sports will give you a good warranty that includes coming to your home for repairs and maintenance.
• Do you have service records for the treadmill maintenance?
  Hopefully this one isn’t a lemon that’s been repaired repeatedly.

3. Take a Test Run

You’re going to be running on it. So when you go see it, bring your running shoes and take if for a 5 or 10 minute spin. Again, don’t be shy. If there’s a problem, you want to know about it before you write a check and lug the thing home in the truck you had to borrow from your friend. If they don’t want you to try it, then you should be suspicious — leave and buy one from someone else.

Pay attention while your are running. Does the suspension feel OK? Do you hear loud sounds or feel shakes? Does the incline work? Do the bells and whistles work? If it has a heart rate monitor, does it work?

4. Look For Wear and Tear

Take a close look at the entire treadmill. Is anything broken or particularly worn out? Pay special attention to the belt and make sure it’s not frayed or otherwise worn out.

Use your common sense. Superficial items like scratches, dings, or a broken cup holder likely don’t matter — especially if you are getting a good price. In fact, you can use cosmetic flaws as a way to negotiate the price down. But if anything important (like the belt) looks damaged, you may want to move on to another seller.

5. Don’t Buy Too Old A Model — 5 Years Or Less Is Best

No matter how reputable the treadmill manufacturer, an electric treadmill is not going to last forever — especially used treadmills. So try to get one that’s less than 5 years old. But again, use your common sense here. If the owner never used it, it still looks brand new, and it was stored in a good location (not a moldy basement) then a 6 year old model for a great price is likely worth getting. That sure sounds better than a 2 year old used treadmill that was used twice a day by a fitness fanatical couple.

There Are Plenty of Used Treadmill Deals Out There

Lot’s of people set ambitious New Year’s resolutions and buy a quality treadmill to burn off their holiday weight gain and finally get in shape. But lot’s of them give up quickly and end up using their treadmills as closet racks for their extra clothes. Be patient, hunt around for the right treadmill, and use these tips make a smart purchase. You can save some money and get in shape at the same time. If you stick with it, having a treadmill in your home is really on of the most convenient way to get and stay in shape!

References:

• Men’s Fitness: “Home Gym Dos and Don’ts”
• Runner’s World: “Buying A Used Treadmill”
• Consumer Reports: “Recommended Treadmills”

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Fitness equipment may evolve and display countless new innovations, but according to treadmill reviews and ratings this old stalwart jogging companion is here to stay. This simple-to-use workout machine remains one of the most popular choices on the market. Oh, of course it now comes with all sorts of gadgets and gizmo’s to make it more fashionable, but details about the basic components still form the bulk of treadmill reviews and ratings. What are the 10 main points to be on the lookout for when you are shopping for one of these training partners?

Exercise treadmill reviews and ratings are still filled with praise for these workout machines. Imagine being able to hop onto your fat-burning buddy at the drop of a hat. No tight-fitting gym clothes to get into. No disconcerting stares from strangers. No time-wasting travel or parking space hunting. And you can jog or walk to your heart’s content (literally!) without keeping an eye on the weather or that nasty, yapping, heel-snapping pooch of the neighbors. What are the things you should keep in mind when studying exercise treadmill reviews and ratings, or while test-running one of these trainers?

1. Measuring The Motor Mechanics

This is where warranty and performance are of prime importance, and not so much the horsepower rating. Unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be a standard industry protocol for rating home treadmill parts, and specifically motors. This means you have to do some serious homework before making your purchase. Luckily you have access to a wealth of detailed brand information on the internet.

You have to take a lot of things into account here. For starters, how many people will be using the machine? How long will their training sessions be? Are any of the potential users on the heavy side? If you are an average-sized single person who simply needs a walking workout for 30 minutes three times a week, your choice would differ substantially from that of someone who needs a machine for a family in which there is a marathon runner, as well as someone who weighs 350 pounds.

A general guideline given in exercise treadmill ratings and reviews may be that you should look for a continuous duty motor that has a horsepower of at least 2 to 2.5. Often the length of the warranty gives an indication of the reliability and durability of the motor. The longer the better, but don’t go blindly for the extra cost of extended warranties.

Check exercise treadmill review sites to identify any possible problems ahead of time. Every brand has its own unique strong points and weaknesses. If you test a workout machine and it seems to lose strength when you climb up, move to another model. If it sounds as if it is really struggling to keep up with your pace, steer clear of it. Normally the level of noise can be a good indication of the quality. In many instances a quiet machine points to low friction levels and quality components.

It is good to remember that you have to keep the whole picture in mind when making your choice. Some brands may display an impressive motor, but it could be there because the extra power is needed to disguise a sub-standard belt or deck. Buy the best motor you can afford, but it must be part of a powerful, quality package.

2. The Fitness Of The Frame

High alloy steel frames are common in most brands and should be your frame of choice. In some of the commercial models you will see aluminum frames. Make sure that the frame feels sturdy and robust. It will take a lot of strain over time.

3. Befriending The Running Belt

Again, your mantra should be to ‘test, test, test’. Feeling comfortable with the size of the running surface will depend on your length and whether you will be walking or running. A generally accepted size is around 20″ (w) x 55″ (l). You have to feel totally comfortable and be able to move freely and naturally. Remember that the thicker and larger the belt is, the harder the motor has to work. It also adds to heat generation, which can shorten the life of the system.

4. Determining The Best Deck And Cushioning

If you imagine the pounding a deck takes on a daily basis, this is another component you have to check out thoroughly. This is the surface the belt moves over. The load you plan to put on the machine determines the quality you will need. As this is the main source of support for the belt, it must be of a superior caliber. This is where adequate shock absorption or cushioning is centered. If it has been treated with a lubricant, so much the better, as this reduces friction. Some decks are reversible, which lengthens its life considerably. If you can afford a 2-ply deck, you should have a more durable machine.

5. Developing Flywheel Finesse

This is the component that has lots to do with fluid, consistent and smooth movement. Through its regulating function, the flywheel helps to keep stress down on the rest of the machine’s components. A good quality flywheel therefore adds to the durability of the trainer.

6. A Robust Roller Run

Rollers can also help to lighten the load on the rest of the device. Bigger, heavier rollers of around 2 inches are preferable. Cheap treadmills often save on this component, leading to early relationship break downs!

7. Fine-Tuning The Feedback

Although all the bells and whistles built into the console can be enticing and visually impressive, this should never be your main focal point. No feedback features are going to rescue a dismal performance component-wise. Look at the variety of features, the communication regarding workouts, heart rate control features, but most importantly the ease of use. You don’t want to have to go for a degree in electronics to be able to comprehend the display.

8. Warranty Wagers

Some brands are still way behind in this department. This is one of the main points always highlighted in exercise treadmill reviews and ratings. It is difficult to understand why a company that has confidence in the quality of its fitness equipment collection often isn’t willing to include a quality warranty. Go for the best you can get. Brands like Sole and Precor are way ahead of Proform in this regard, for example. Make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter in order not to void your warranty. Remember that in most instances where you see a used treadmill for sale, you won’t get any coverage.

9. Folding Treadmill A Fad?

Folding treadmills are now all the rage and have come a long way since the first models. If you have space limitations, this may be a solution for you. These days you don’t have to compromise on stability if you opt for a folding model. The designs have become so innovative, that these trainers offer the same superb quality as their non-folding counterparts. You may want to spend a bit more if you go for a folding treadmill to make sure that you get a stable machine.

10. Workouts Your Weapon Against Boredom

When it comes to the fat-burning exercise programs built into your machine, take your own make-up into account. Are you somebody who looks for an enjoyable program and then prefers to use this repeatedly? Or do you need constant stimulation, change and a new challenge? Some people will be happy with one or two workouts, while others need a new routine every day to combat boredom. A good collection allows you to ’surprise’ your muscles from time to time, in order to avoid the dreaded workout plateau during which there seems to be no progress for weeks at a time.

Ready to buy a treadmill? One way to stop a slick salesman in his tracks, is to enter the store with your running shoes in one hand and a stack of exercise treadmill reviews and ratings in the other…

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