I have a treadmill. I paid about $900 for it a few years back. It sits in my basement, and—in the winter when it’s below zero and the sidewalks are ice covered—I use it. When I first got it, I thought it was a great purchase. Even if it was nice outside, I’d run on the treadmill, just because I liked the idea of not worrying about darkness or annoying motorists impacting my run. My treadmill was there, ready for me, whenever I needed it. I had no excuses for skipping a run.
Over the years, I have to admit, my fascination with the treadmill has waned. The novelty has worn off. It’s an okay treadmill, but it’s developed a few kinks, and I’ve realized that more than 20 minutes on a treadmill is boring. In addition, I think it’s lost a little bit of cushion and become hard of my aging knees and ankles. And, I’ve come to realize that running on the treadmill makes me feel good, but not like running outside makes me feel good, even if the weather is less than ideal.
Yet, I must say the treadmill does have its advantages. It keeps a great record of how far and how fast I’ve run. If I want to run hills, the treadmill can create hills where and when I want them. I control the incline, although I’ve yet to find one that simulates downhills as well as uphills.
On a long run, I don’t have to worry about carrying a sports drink or water. I just put my hydration right by the treadmill. And, I never have to worry about where the relieve my bladder while out running. My bathroom is just a few steps away.
I don’t have children, but I know of plenty of people who run primarily on treadmills because their children can play right beside them as they complete that 10 miler. Who needs a babysitter when you’ve got a treadmill?
A treadmill also allows you to watch favorite TV shows or movies while running. Talk about multi-tasking.
A good treadmill is softer and easier on the joints than road running. Notice I say a “good” treadmill–not a treadmill you pay $300 for. A good treadmill will have shock absorbing properties to protect knees and ankles. In fact, some people use a treadmill for running when recovering from injuries to minimize impact.
If you do choose to buy a treadmill, keep a few things in mind. If you really think you will use your treadmill, go for a more expensive, stable model that has can absorb shock and is rated at at least two horsepower. If you buy the cheapest treadmill on the market, it will probably begin serving other purposes after not too long. A common second life for many treadmills is a clothes drying rack.
Keep in mind also that many cheaper models are more adequate for walkers than runners. If you try a model in the store, run at the fastest pace you would likely run at home. Do you feel wobbly? Do you feel the treadmill provides ample support? If not, try a different model. Don’t even think about buying a treadmill without running on it for at least five minutes. And run on at least five before you consider buying.
The bottom line with treadmills for runners is to dish out for a quality treadmill, or don’t buy one at all. If you’ve only got $300 to spend on a treadmill, you’re better off spending that money on weather appropriate gear for running outside or a gym membership. Unless you need a clothes drying rack.
