Guide to Buying a Portable Treadmill

Buying a portable treadmill is a great way to get a cost-effective workout, although there are a few pointers to keep in mind before you buy. Folding portable treadmills, while offering you greater flexibility, will not necessarily have the stability of a non-folding treadmill. Additionally, folding treadmills come in two different varieties: manual versus motorized. Manual treadmills can be a strain on the joints to get them going initially, while motorized treadmills can have more mechanical problems

Noise and Space: Folding treadmills are extremely compact, and can be quickly set-up. The highest quality small portable treadmills are designed fold in half without significant protrusions from folding arms, allowing the treadmills to be stored with a minimum of horizontal room. Folding treadmills rarely produce significant amounts of noise. Motorized folding treadmills generally use very small horse-powered engines, while manual treadmills may creak slightly, but do not produce a significant noise contribution.

Price ranges: Folding treadmills are generally cheaper than non-folding treadmills. Manual folding treadmills are much more affordable than motorized folding treadmills.

Motor and Horsepower: Motorized folding treadmills usually employ a motor that generates between 2.5 and 3.0 horsepower. These types of motors are designed to handle between 300 and 400 pounds, and supply enough juice to power a display panel with the speed of the runner and, in some cases, other health related information.

Stability: A small portable treadmill lack the stability of non-folding treadmill because the frame is exposed to so much shifting when it is being moved from place to place. However, folding treadmills are not dangerous or highly unstable—they are simply less rigid than models that are not exposed to the stresses of moving. Additionally, recent innovations in the field have created far sturdier folding treadmills that balance the weight of the users in a far more efficient manner.

Smooth Ride: The smoothest folding treadmills are those that have a higher powered motor that can provide continuous, uninterrupted power. Lower horsepower motors can cause jerks or stoppages, resulting in a very difficult workout. Additionally, the age of the folding treadmill directly influences the smoothness of the ride. As treadmills age, they develop more dents and blemishes, making the operation of the machinery less efficient and more herky jerky.