Motorized Treadmill

Motorized treadmills are becoming more and more affordable these days. In fact, one wonders whether if it still makes sense to own a manual treadmill. Traditionally, manual treadmills are much more affordable when compared to motorized treadmills. Today, you can find motorized treadmills that are priced as low as $400. You might as well go with a motorized treadmill. But first, let’s explore the pros and cons of a motorized treadmill.

How a motorized treadmill works.

A motorized machine has a core motor that provides between 2 to 3 hp (usually). This function of the motor is to power the running the belt. Hence, the speed of the running belt depends on the motor. The more powerful the motor, the smoother the acceleration and the faster the speed.

The pros.

Thanks to modern technology, modern treadmills are becoming more and more sophisticated. Sophisticated in the sense that there are more features. But the machines are still easy to use. You have different types of heart rate monitors, shock assisted folding, calories monitoring, etc. You can even listen to your iPod while you run or watch a TV program on a flat screen panel.
You can change speed and incline as you are working out. The controls are usually located on the handlebars for easy access.
You can set custom programs to simulate hill climbs or interval runs. You can’t do that if you have no power. That makes a motorized treadmill ideal for almost everyone, since it can accommodate different fitness levels.

The cons.

If the motor breaks down, the entire machine stops working. The motor tends to overheat when use for prolonged periods of time at high speed.
If there is a black out, you can’t use the machine since it’s dependent on electricity.
Due to the number of features, many electronic components have been added to the treadmill. If one component fails, it affects the entire machine.

A modern treadmill comes at different prices. The lower end models cost about $400 to $500. The higher end models cost between $1,000 to $1,500.

Compare the pros and cons for both motorized and manual treadmills before making a buying decision.