Used Treadmills

Anyone looking for a used treadmill, is likely doing it for one reason. Apart of course form getting into shape. Buying a used treadmill can save you a lot of money. Considering that a good quality new treadmill can cost thousands of dollars, it makes sense to look for a used one. Generally, getting a good used treadmill is not that difficult. A lot of people decide on an impulse that they're going to get into shape and buy themselves a treadmill. A few month down the road, and that treadmill is collecting dust. A perfect opportunity for the informed consumer (you! of course) to come along a get themselves a bargain of a deal on a treadmill.

You will be a well informed treadmill consumer, after you read the rest of this piece ;)

Motor Drive Unit

Let's take a look at on of the most expensive pieces of the treadmill, the motor. This may get a little technical, but just bear with me a little. Look for a specification called "continuous duty peak performance". Make sure it has a rating, of at least 1.5. Don't get led astray by other specifications. You'll want to get yourself a Pulse Width Modulated (PWN) motor as well. There quite reliable, and less likely to need service, than a Solid State Control Rectifier motor.

Digital Displays

Most digital displays on treadmills these days have more options than any one person will use. If your a numbers (goal oriented) person though, it's good because they not only give you something tangible to shoot for, but break up the boredom that treadmills have been known to inflict on their users. I find a good music play-list on my mp3 helps out a lot here.

Some will have heart monitor information displayed as well. This is a great feature if you can get it. Especially, if you don't already have a personal heart monitor. It's not just a gadget, but can be a vital part of your workout. Keeping your hear rate within your aerobic, or anaerobic zone can make your workouts more effective and safer for you.

Running Room Size

If you have the space for it, the bigger the better. If you buy too small a treadmill, it can be awkward to run at full stride on. Stay away from any treadmill less the 53 inches long, and 17 inches wide.

Durable Construction

In general, the more steel, and the less plastic and particle board the better. Running at full stride, or even a leisurely jog, can put massive amounts of stress on a treadmill. Carefully examine the frame, the rollers, and the incline mechanism.

Extra Stuff

Think about safety, especially if you have children or pets around the house. If you don't want the kids using the treadmill, or having fun with rover on the treadmill, make sure you buy a treadmill with a safety key. The treadmill will only work with one in place. Just keep it out of reach of the kids.