Skip to content

What are the Treadmill Pros and Cons for Home Use?

    A treadmill is maybe the most useful piece of fitness equipment you can have at home. However, as with everything, besides the advantages, there are a few cons as well.

    In this post, you will learn what the cons and pros of owning a treadmill at home are. It may help you to decide before buying one.

    Con: The expense of Initial Purchase

    If you want to buy a quality treadmill, you will have to dig deep into your pocket. Yes, you can buy a manual machine for around 200 bucks, but that equipment is just for walking and will not provide the workout experience you are looking for.

    A modern treadmill, which comes with all the necessary functions, starts at about $1000. However, for an average user, they provide everything for an efficient home cardio workout.

    Recommended: Top Treadmills Under 1000

    Do not forget to check out various shops before purchasing one since there are big differences, and you can save a lot of money with a bit of research.

    Finally, learn what to look for in a treadmill. There are many features you should pay attention to. We have a detailed guide that can teach you everything, just click on the following link.

    Pro: Treadmill running is better for your joints

    The treadmills are equipped with a shock absorption cushioning. That means when your feet hit the running area, less stress is generated on your ankle, knee, and other joints of your lower body as if you were running on solid ground.

    That doesn’t mean that there is no need to wear running shoes, though. Shoes are the essential pieces of equipment for running, joking, and even walking.

    The absorption is beneficial, but if you have joint problems, you should always consult with your doctor before. And, don’t forget the correct running technique.

    Con: Running & Maintenance Costs

    Another point you should keep in mind is the cost of running and maintaining your treadmill. Even if you buy a professional model, you will have to use a lubricant to protect it. Plus, some parts should be replaced every few years, and in case you are not a techie, you will need the help of a professional. Each of these is an extra cost, but you can enjoy your machine for long years.

    Tip: Treadmill buying guide – What to look for when buying a machine

     

    Pro: Running is boring (for someone)

    Treadmill running at the same tempo is dull even if the machine is equipped with various stuff for entertainment. Plus, running at the same pace isn’t as beneficial for weight loss and endurance.

    To get rid of dullness, use the opportunities of the treadmill to make your treadmill running workout more exciting. Better machines are packed with many inbuilt programs. For example, there are plans in which you have to switch your speed, and even the angle of the desk is modified.

    This type of workout, when the intensity changes from time to time, is called high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and it is proven to be a very effective way to exercise. HIIT boosts your endurance and calorie burn.

    Con: The Lifetime of the Model

    Even if you care about your running machine, it does not last a lifetime. Typically, the better models can be used for 8-12 years, depending on how often and intensively you use it.

    But if you purchase one for $1200, and it works for 10 years, that means you paid just 10 bucks for a month. That is nothing compared to gym memberships and the health benefits of running.

    Pro: You are independent of the weather conditions

    Has it ever happened to you that you decided to have a nice long run in the afternoon after a hectic day, but the weather ruined your plan?

    If you have a treadmill, you don’t have to care about if it rains or snows outdoor. You can run whenever you want. However, I love out running in the snow:)

    Con: It Needs Space

    Another thing you should not forget is that a treadmill needs space to use it comfortably and safely. Some models are wider and longer, but you can buy a compact treadmill as well, but the running area will not be so big.

    Hence, before buying one, always check out the specifications of the product to know if you will have enough space.

    Pro: Huge Variety of Treadmill Workouts

    Better models come with tons of inbuilt programs to train you in various ways. You can change the incline of the running area to feel as if you were running uphill. You can set it to change the speed automatically at different intervals. But these are just the typical features to train your leg muscles.

    Since there are so many possibilities, you will never get bored and set the machine for a program that suits you the best. You can run whenever and however you want to boost your heart rate in different ways.

    Con: Lack of nature

    When we run outdoor, we need to adapt to the environment. The wind, sun, temperature, slopes, and the type of road we are running on each affect the training. Because of these conditions, there are no two identical workouts. That means a constant challenge for the body and mind.

    Another significant benefit of being outdoor is fresh air.

    The Effectiveness of Treadmills Vs. Other Cardio Machines

    Well, with the treadmill, you can only run. But, running is proved to be the most beneficial exercise. It keeps your cardiovascular system healthy, helps you to lose weight and keep your body and mind healthy. And if we see that there are various training programs you can use, the results are even better.

    If someone asks me what to buy, a rowing machine, elliptical, exercise bike or a treadmill first, I always put my vote on treadmills and rowers.

    Tip: Do you sit too much each day? Get an under the desk treadmill to decrease the harm of sedentary lifestyle.

    From www.naturalstacks.comHow Many Calories Do Cardio Machines Burn

    To sum up, if you can afford a treadmill, it is undoubtedly a good buy to keep yourself fit and healthy at home.

    nv-author-image

    James Wright

    James (36) has been working out since he was 15 years old. He has a home gym where he pumps iron, does bodyweight workouts and boxing. He likes sharing his experiences with others who want to build a better physique.

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    I accept the Privacy Policy