Why It's Important to Find a Treadmill That Folds Up
A treadmill can help you meet your goals, whether you're preparing for a race, or just want to squeeze in some exercise. But you must find one that folds to save space.
To fold up a treadmill, first move the deck towards the display. Then, carefully secure the latch knob to secure it.
Compact Design
Foldable treadmills are compact enough to fit under a bed or into the closet when not in use, however they still offer plenty of running space. Folding treadmills are usually cheaper than non-folding ones and can help you keep active during days when the weather isn't great or when you have a busy schedule.
To determine if a treadmill with folds is the right fit for you, consider your goals for fitness and the things you intend to use it for. Some treadmills are designed to be used for walking, while others permit light jogging and even short runs. If you're planning to perform training that involves running or higher speeds, you should verify the treadmill's speed range as well as motor size before buying.
Non-folding treadmills are generally heavier, which makes them more stable at high speeds. Folding treadmills can also be less stable, especially if used by runners who test themselves to the max. When selecting a treadmill that folds, look for one with safety features, such as an emergency stop button, to make sure you are able to shut it down should you lose control of the machine.
If you're planning to purchase a foldable treadmill that is safe for a runner pick one with a powerful motor and a large deck size. Generally speaking, the 2.5 horsepower motor is adequate for casual runners and occasional sprinters, however serious runners should aim for at least 3.5 HP to ensure they are able to run comfortably at high speeds. Look for a treadmill with built-in cushions to reduce the force of your knees to allow you to run for longer periods of time without fear of injury.
Convenient Storage
If you live in a cramped space, you should be able of folding your treadmill when not in use. Most folding treadmills feature wheels that can be easily rolled away from the area where you exercise to make room for other activities, such as when the kids come home from school or when you have guests coming over later. Non-folding treadmills require more space, as they are made to be permanent fixtures.
Many folding treadmills are compact and space-saving, but they don't sacrifice speed or features. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill, for example, folds up quickly thanks to the patented EasyLift mechanism. It also has an 3.5 CHP motor, and both a 15% incline and 3 percent decline to help up your cardio intensity.
Another alternative is the SF-T7632 foldable treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness. It is easy to put in a cupboard or under a desk, and is still a comfortable running surface. Its small size and sturdy construction makes it an ideal option for those looking to do some light exercise at work or while watching television.
If you're thinking about buying a foldable treadmill make sure you read the description of the product for specifics about how it can be folded up and put away. It is also important to examine the frame's dimensions and weight along with other transport features, such as transportation wheels and built-in carry handles.
Travelle Gaines is a personal trainer in Los Angeles at Blocks Nutrition. She told PEOPLE that the biggest obstacle in staying active was a lack of time. A treadmill that folds is a great option for those who are always busy. " hometreadmills.uk allows you to take a short run before or after work or even during lunchtime," she says.
Easy to operate
The most efficient treadmills that fold can be operated easily regardless of whether they're used for short runs or for a workout at home. Victoria Brady, ACE-CPT and fitness brand Fyt suggests looking for an option with simple controls, such as buttons for speed or incline, or touchscreen programming. Find a motor with 2.0-2.5 HP if you intend on walking with power and select one that is able to support routine running if you're an avid running enthusiast.
Sydney Bueckert is an NASM CPT and Sunny Health & Fitness' chief in-house trainer. She says a good foldable treadmill will also have wheels that make it easier to move. "It's much easier to get on and off the machine with wheels, so you don't have to worry about moving it by yourself."
You should also look for models with additional features like ports for USB cables as well as headphone jacks, and a device holder. The Echelon Auto Fold Connected Treadmill is a bright, clear display that shows a variety of motivational metrics. It can also connect it to fitness applications and monitor your heart rate, among other things.
Other features you can look for are a safety clip, which stops the treadmill from working when someone walks on it while it's in use, and an automatic folding deck to a 45-degree angle when you lift it from the bottom of the treadmill. You should look for a treadmill that comes with gas shocks, which allow the deck to be moved slowly and gently rather than smashing into the ground like some models do. You should ensure whether your treadmill meets the safety requirements of the locale for operating it, too.
Safety
When choosing a treadmill that folds up, make sure it's equipped with security features. The majority of folding treadmills have an safety lock to keep the deck in place when it is in storage mode. This feature prevents the deck from being released accidentally when the machine is utilized. It helps to keep children from the treadmill.
A power cord lock is an additional important security feature. This will ensure that the treadmill is turned off and out of reach after every workout. This is particularly important if you have kids who might be enticed by the temptation to turn on the treadmill or play with the cords. If the treadmill is not properly shut off and locked after every use, it could be accidentally turned on or children may accidentally pull the cord, causing the running belt to accelerate.
Also, make sure that the treadmill is away from items such as drapes or curtains that could inadvertently hang down close to the treadmill while you are using it. This could increase the chance of an injury and create a trip-hazard. It is also recommended that you use a treadmill in the correct footwear. This will help to reduce the risk of tripping over things at home and also aid in maintaining an even pace while walking or running on the treadmill.
It is also a great idea to fold up the treadmill and secure it before leaving it in a public area like an exercise facility or school. This will reduce the risk of injury for students and other patrons who aren't accustomed to the treadmill's operation or the noise level in a busy area.
Stability
A treadmill that folds up has a lower center of gravity than a non-folding model, making it more stable. It is less likely to fall over and cause injuries if you step on the machine or tilt it too far. It takes up less room, which is important if you have a small apartment or home. It is easy to transport a treadmill that could be folded. This is a huge advantage if you intend to carry it on workout trips or business travel. Additionally, it's recommended to look for a folding treadmill that includes a carry handle and transportation wheels to make moving it around easier.
When you are choosing a treadmill that folds up, it is also important to think about the speed range and incline function. If you plan to run on the treadmill the speed of 7.5 mph will likely be sufficient. If you are an athlete who competes then you might require an engine with a higher speed.
In addition, you must also make sure that the treadmill is simple to fold and unfold. Some models require two people to collapse, while others can be easily folded by one person. The best treadmills will have clear instructions on how to do this correctly. It is also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for regular maintenance and cleaning the unit.
While some treadmills that fold up are easy to use and store some are difficult to move. Always read the manual to fully comprehend how the machine works. You should then try using the machine before deciding if it is appropriate for your fitness requirements.