Max. user weight
The highest weight of an athlete, at which the treadmill is able to work indefinitely for a long time (at least during the warranty period) without negative consequences. Most modern models have a "weight category" of the order of 150 kg and even more, which allows them to be used even by people of large build; however, there are exceptions, so this parameter is still worth paying attention to when choosing a treadmill.
Note that it is worth choosing a model by weight with a significant margin — at least 10 kg more than your weight, even if you expect to lose it during training. If, on the contrary, you are going through a comprehensive training course in order to gain weight, then you should focus on the result you want by the end of the course. Anyway, the "weight category" of the simulator must be greater than the weight of the user — otherwise the device will work with off-design loads and may break at any time.
If the treadmill is planned to be used for several users, accordingly, you need to focus on the weight of the largest of them.
Min. running speed
The slowest speed at which the treadmill belt can move. This parameter is indicated only for
electric models (see "Type"), as in other types, it depends solely on the user himself.
The ability to operate the blade at a low speed is important if strong loads are contraindicated — for example, during the rehabilitation period after injuries. In many modern models, this figure is only 1 km/h (despite the fact that the average walking speed of a healthy person is about 5 km/h). Thus, they can be used even in difficult cases, when normal walking is very difficult.
Max. running speed
The highest speed at which the treadmill can move. This parameter is indicated only for models of the electric type (see above) — in mechanical and magnetic ones, it depends solely on the capabilities of the athlete himself, and it is impossible to accurately indicate the maximum speed in the characteristics of such simulators.
The higher the maximum speed — the greater the load can be given to the trainee and the better the treadmill is suitable for intensive training. However, for household models, a speed of 15 – 16 km/h is considered quite sufficient; more "fast" simulators usually belong to the advanced class and are designed for professional athletes.
Note that in everyday use it does not always make sense to chase a high maximum speed. If your level of physical fitness is not high or if high loads are undesirable, a speed of 10 – 12 km/h may well be enough.
Motor power
Power of the motor installed in the electric treadmill (see "Type"). This indicator is directly related, first of all, to the smoothness of the ride and the maximum speed (see above) — the more powerful the engine, the more uniform the movement of the canvas will be and the faster it can move. Also, engine power determines the resistance to high loads: with an equal weight category (see "User weight"),
a more powerful model is better suited for people with large body weight, especially at high speeds.
In general, most recreational treadmills have motors between 1.5 and 2.5 hp; more powerful options usually belong to the professional class.
It is worth noting that above we were talking about the constant power of the engine — that is, the power with which it can work for a long time without being subjected to overloads. In some models of simulators, the so-called peak power — the power that the engine can develop for a short time, for a few seconds. It is higher, but long-term operation at such a load is fraught with the failure of the device. Therefore, before buying, it is worthwhile to clarify, if possible, what power is implied in the characteristics — nominal or peak; this is especially true for high power models.
Incline adjustment
Possibility to change the angle of inclination of the treadmill. Due to this, in mechanical and electrical models (see "Type"), the load is regulated; in the first case, this is generally the only option for changing the load, and in the second, the slope of the canvas allows you to simulate movement uphill (and in some models, vice versa, from the mountain).
The angle of inclination is usually adjusted manually by setting the blade to a certain level of a special stop. However, there are also automatic models where a separate drive does this, and the user only needs to give a command from the control panel. The second option is more convenient, but significantly more expensive.
Max. incline angle
The largest angle at which the treadmill can be tilted; For details on this function, see "Inclination Adjustment". The greater the maximum angle, the steeper the climb can be simulated by the simulator, the more intense the load it can provide. The angle of inclination is calculated from the horizontal.
Some models allow you to tilt the canvas not only “towards you”, simulating an ascent, but also “away from you”, simulating a descent. For such models, two values \u200b\u200bof the maximum angles are indicated, while the “downhill” angle is indicated by a negative number — for example, “20 ° / -6 °”
Suspension system
The cushioning system softens the shock felt when running on the treadmill and thus reduces stress on the bones and joints. Roughly speaking, due to this system, the canvas “springs” under your feet, and the run turns out to be softer. This feature can be useful to any user, but it will be especially useful for those who are just starting out, as well as for people with a large body weight.
Transport rollers
Special rollers or other similar devices that provide additional convenience when moving the simulator. Treadmills have a fairly significant weight — tens of kilograms — and carrying them in your hands is fraught with significant difficulties, and moving on the floor without additional devices is fraught with scratches on the coating. Rollers also allow you to roll the simulator with a minimum of effort and without risking damage to the flooring.
Training programs
The number of
training programs provided for in the design of the simulator. This is not about load levels, but about automatic modes of operation, during which the track can change the speed of movement, signal the beginning and end of a lesson, etc. For details on the number of programs, see Built-in Programs.
