[suzushii]

So I want one to keep healthy, but the options where I live are VERY limited. I found a model that's got good stats according to the guides I found on the net (motor power, electronic incline, programs) but fails at one thing - WIDTH

It's 40 cm wide (that's 15.7 inches). From what I've read anything smaller then 18 in isn't recommended.



Another point that worries me is that they didn't have one of THOSE models displayed that I could actually try. They were just for show.

Now, to drop 1000$ without even testing it, I thought it was ridiculous, but they were looking at me like I was ridiculous to ask to try it on


The next available model had better stats - bigger motor, more programs, WIDER belt (17.7 inches) lots of bells and whistles that I didn't actually need. It was also almost 2000 dollars, and it didn't exactly seem all that BETTER for the buck, you know?

I also had the option of trying it on. (I didn't at that moment, it's kind of out of my budget range)

You're probably thinking - why not go to another shop? There is no other shop. So, yeah, for people who use them - is the wider belt worth it? Should I get a different machine instead, like an elliptical (even though I hate ellipticals, and love treadmills)?

For refference I'm a girl, 5'4, small size (112 pounds) so maybe I don't need such a wide belt?

[Mentos]

I'd suggest against treadmills.
They destroy your knees like crazy.
Why not try running/jogging outside? It'll also save you some $$.

If I had to get a workout machine, I'd suggest the elliptical over the treadmill.

[D_K]

I'd suggest against treadmills.
They destroy your knees like crazy.
Why not try running/jogging outside? It'll also save you some $$.

If I had to get a workout machine, I'd suggest the elliptical over the treadmill.

Treadmill running is low impact relative to outdoor running. A lot of experienced runners who need to recover switch from outdoor to treadmill to actually give their knees a break. Compare the joint impact from pavement to the soft platform of a typical treadmill. But then, running in general is bad for your knees and every medical professional will tell you that. My knees are shot but I'll never quit running. I'll lay off and take extended breaks now and then but once it feels better i'm off to cover my mileage.

In regards to your question, try it before buying. That sales rep is a retard and you should have told him so.

[suzushii]

Thanks for the advice.

Regarding running outside - I sweat a lot *embarrasing*. I also catch pneumonias easily. The last thing I need is to walk back from the park with icy cold damp clothes on me. It's also not that common here to jog and people STARE. And during the hours I can do it (early morning, late night) I'm too paranoid about getting mugged/raped/killed.

Regarding knee damage, I won't be doing any heavy duty running. More like powerwalking for extended periods of time (the time it takes to watch a show/movie? ). Maybe on some days I'll add some 20 min of HIIT, but I doubt this level of exercise is that damaging to the knees....is it ?

[MqN]

Treadmill running is low impact relative to outdoor running. A lot of experienced runners who need to recover switch from outdoor to treadmill to actually give their knees a break. Compare the joint impact from pavement to the soft platform of a typical treadmill. But then, running in general is bad for your knees and every medical professional will tell you that. My knees are shot but I'll never quit running. I'll lay off and take extended breaks now and then but once it feels better i'm off to cover my mileage.

In regards to your question, try it before buying. That sales rep is a retard and you should have told him so.

I agree. running/jogging outside does a lot more damage to your knees. I suggest ellipticals if you can. I don't really know the price but any machine should be tested before buying. Cycling is also another great alternative.