Treadmill Suggestions

Ashwee87

I am looking to get a treadmill and would like some suggestions. I am looking for something that is compact and affordable.

Shawshankcan

Either pony up and get something decent, or try to find a solid used one. If you go cheap you will get a piece of crap that will wobble and won't feel steady in the slightest.

BrianSharpe

Affordable is a pretty subjective thing, but my best advice is to buy the best quality one you can comfortably afford (consider looking at used ones too)

A treadmill takes a beating and the cheaper models tend not to be very robust. Club quality ones cost a lot and would be overkill for personal use. I've got a Pacemaster Silverthat's coming up on 10 years old (hasn't been used as much since I started running outside all year 'round) but ir's never needed servicing.

omma_to_3

Do you plan on using it for walking or running? If you're using it just for walking, a cheaper model will do quite nicely. If you're using it for running, I recommend spending some cash.

I purchased a NordicTrack C900 Pro for about $1000. I wanted it for walking and running. It did not hold up well to the running (though I think I got a dud - they ended up replacing it under warranty). Even when it was working well, I hated running on it. Walking was fine, but I wanted to shoot myself every time I ran on it. I found it harder to run on than running outside. When I had the opportunity to replace it under warranty, they said I could upgrade if I paid the difference in cost. I upgraded to the Commercial 1750 which costs about $1500. What a difference! I thought $1000 was a lot to pay, but the difference in the upgraded model was amazing. I actually enjoy running on it. I enjoy running on it, and it's now easier than running outside (as most people say it should be).

I guess what I'm trying to say is...if you can't afford a really nice one (assuming you're using it for running), you may be better off joining a gym to use their commercial machines.