Which Is The Best Treadmill For You — Motorized Or Manual?

When it comes to choosing a treadmill to use in the gym or to buy for home use then you have two primary options to choose from — should you be using a motorized treadmill or a manual one? A motorized treadmill uses its built in motor to power the treadmill belt whilst a manual treadmill’s belt is powered by you when you start using it. So, which option will suit you best?

#1 Motorized Treadmills: Treadmills that have a built in motor will give you the option of using a moving belt rather than one you have to start off yourself. In most cases this means that you can choose from a variety of speeds, slopes and resistance factors that allow you to change the workout that you get as you use the machine.

You’ll also generally find that motorized models come with more added extras. So, for example, you could end up with a heart rate monitor, calorie counter and even customizable programs that you can set up for your own individual needs.

But, a motorized treadmill will cost you more than a manual model. You may also find that these treadmills are heavier than manual ones and may take up more space. Most models here are static models so you’ll need to have sufficient space to have them in your home in any case.

#2 Manual Treadmills: Treadmills without any source of power (apart from your feet!) which you move by using them. Some people prefer this option as they feel it gives them a better overall workout as they have to make more effort to get things moving. These models are also generally cheaper than motorized options.

The average manual treadmill will also be smaller, lighter and less bulky than a motorized model. In some cases here you can even buy folding models that can be stored away when you aren’t using them which can be useful.

You don’t, however, get the same variety of workout options with a manual treadmill and are unlikely to get any of the monitoring or reporting mechanisms that come with the other models. Also, some people find manual treadmills hard to actually run hard on and prefer to use a motorized treadmill for this reason.

The choice of treadmill that you ultimately make may well depend on your budget and your workout preferences. At the end of the day both options here could help you kick start a general weight loss or fitness program. If you are looking for other options and the ability to take on different workout programs then a motorized model may suit you best.

One of the best ways to see which model will work best for you is to try one of each out. You should be able to do this in an exercise equipment store or a department store with a sports equipment department. Your gym may also be worth looking at for this purpose although many gyms will nowadays only offer motorized treadmills to their members.

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