Treadmill Equipment

Walking and running enthusiasts often prefer treadmills to running outdoors. It can be easier on delicate knees, plus it is a private and personal way to exercise. Deciding to buy a treadmill for yourself is the easy part. The hard part is trying to sort out what you’ll need in the way of treadmill equipment.

Of course the basic frame of a treadmill is an absolute necessity. Choose one from a well-known brand that has all the features you need. Make sure that your space can handle the size of treadmill you choose. You want your treadmill to work for you. Buying the actual treadmill is a no-brainer. But did you know that there are several other pieces of equipment to consider?

Look carefully at treadmill belts. The belt is the part that you’re actually running on, so it really is the heart and soul of your treadmill. If your treadmill isn’t giving you the running experience it should, it’s probably because of a bad belt. Most new treadmills will come with a stock factory-issued belt, but make sure by reading the box prior to purchase. Even if it does come with a belt included, you might want a higher-grade belt to replace it. Or you might want a spare belt around in case the one you have breaks.

Belt lubricant is another important piece of equipment. The belt can’t glide over the metal frame of the treadmill without some sort of lubricant. You’d have a very choppy run indeed without a lubricated belt. Read the bottle and buy a wax-based lubricant rather than ones made from oil or silicon.

Your treadmill’s manual will tell you more about your treadmill’s need for lubricant. It can suggest a helpful lubrication schedule for the best results, or it may tell you that your belt needs no lubrication unless there is a noticeable problem. Many belts nowadays come from the factory pre-waxed. It all depends on your specific treadmill.

A floor mat to place beneath your treadmill is another crucial thing to purchase. A mat serves multiple functions. It absorbs some of the shock and shields your knees from high impacts. It also reduces noise from the machine and keeps the treadmill from leaving scuffs or scratches on your flooring. Typical mats are 3’ by 6’, but you can buy extra-long or irregular-shaped mats as well. Vinyl mats are more common and last longer than foam ones.

Lastly, you need to consider what accessories you’ll need along with your treadmill. Replacement safety keys, surge protectors, add-on heart rate monitors, a caddy for your water bottle, and running gear and apparel are all a part of the treadmill experience.

By now, you probably are starting to understand that buying a treadmill involves more than just one step. The right treadmill equipment rounds out your treadmill purchase and ensures that you’ll be able to reach your exercise goals with your treadmill. By Jenny Evans