More features
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Management on the handles. On the handrails of the treadmill are buttons for controlling training modes. Usually, they can be used to adjust the speed of the walking belt, as well as stop / start the track. In more advanced simulators, buttons can additionally be placed on the handrails to adjust the angle of inclination, switch training programs, start / stop the timer (stopwatch), etc.
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Vibrating massager. The treadmill is additionally equipped with a vibrating massager with replaceable bands, which is quite rare among such devices. The vibration massager system consists of a stable, height-adjustable stand and a set of special belts. By selecting the necessary belt, programme, speed and intensity of work, the user can perform various types of massages: relaxing, corrective, anti-cellulite, etc. During the procedure, the device simultaneously massages the muscles and makes them contract. In fact, the vibration massage function is primarily used to correct the figure, warm up the muscles before exercise and relieve fatigue after them.
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Fan. The treadmill's own fan will keep you comfortable during intense workouts, especially in warm weather: the additional air movement increases the evaporation of sweat from the skin, helps cool the body and prevents overheating.
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Bottle holder. A special stand that a
...llows you to conveniently place a bottle of water directly on the simulator. The holder is usually made in such a way that, on the one hand, it is easy to get the bottle, on the other hand, it excludes the possibility of its falling out. This feature will allow you to always have a supply of water on hand and make up for its lack in the body during long workouts, without being distracted from the actual workout and without stopping movement.
— Emergency stop key. The possibility of an emergency stop of the treadmill can significantly increase the safety of training. Usually, an emergency stop key consists of a magnetic contact group, a cable and a clothespin. So, during training, a magnetic key is attached to the control panel of the simulator, a cable is drawn from it (usually less than 1 metre long), and at the end there is a clothespin that is fixed to the edge of a T-shirt or to a belt. If the user stumbles or loses control of the treadmill's speed, the tightness of the cable will simply pull out the magnetic key, which will turn off the engine.
— Colour display. The presence of a colour monitor in the design of the simulator. This feature does not affect the main features of the device, however, such displays are considered more convenient and pleasant to view than black and white. And some models may include various additional features designed to make classes more interesting — for example, the ability to play DVD movies or virtual workouts (see above).
— Bluetooth. The presence of a Bluetooth wireless module in the treadmill allows the treadmill to be synchronized with the user's smartphone, tablet or laptop / PC. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to control the results of training in a convenient form. Additionally, Bluetooth wireless communication can be used to download new training programs to the on-board computer of the simulator and synchronize with the heart rate monitor via the ANT protocol.
— Wi-Fi. The presence of a Wi-Fi wireless communication module in the design of the simulator. The Wi-Fi interface was originally intended for connecting to computer networks (including Internet access), but more recently it has also been used for direct connection between different devices, without using a network. The specific features implemented using this module may be different. So, some simulators are able to interact with training programs installed on tablets and smartphones and transmit information to such programs about the details of the training (distance traveled, calories burned, etc.), others allow you to update the firmware or change the settings remotely, etc. .P.
— USB connector. USB itself is a universal interface designed to connect external peripherals to a computer or other control device. Actually, for the same purpose it is used in modern simulators; but the specific application in different models may be different. So, USB can be used to connect heart rate sensors and other specialized accessories, to play music and/or video from external media (for example, “flash drives”), to update the firmware using the same media, etc.
— TV tuner. The presence in the design of the simulator of a TV tuner — a device designed to receive television broadcasts. This function is useful for those who would like to be able to watch their favorite TV programs, series, etc. right in the process of training: usually, models with TV tuners also have colour displays and speakers (see below), which allows you to watch the broadcast directly on the simulator. However you need to remember that tuners can be designed for different broadcast standards; therefore, before purchasing a model with this function, it is advisable to make sure that it is compatible with local TV broadcasts.
— mini-Jack 3.5 mm (Aux). The 3.5 mm mini-Jack (Aux) connector is designed to connect an MP3 player or a smartphone/tablet. This allows you to output the sound signal from multimedia devices to the speakers built into the treadmill. Some models may additionally have a mini-Jack connector for connecting headphones. The sound output to the headphones will allow you to train to your favorite music without disturbing other users in the same room as you.
— Speakers. Through its own speakers, the simulator can play various audio information — from service signals (exceeding the heart rate, the end of the programme, etc.) and ending with musical compositions and sound tracks of films played on the display (see above).
— Tablet stand. Allows you to securely and safely mount a tablet with almost any screen size on the treadmill. Thanks to this, the user can enjoy watching TV shows or movies directly during training. Usually, the stand is located under the main screen of the treadmill. Advanced class models are often equipped with a stand with the ability to adjust the angle of the tablet. In parallel with this, the treadmill can be equipped with a USB port and built-in speakers; some models may have a Wi-Fi wireless module.Running belt size (LxW)
Under the dimensions of the canvas in the characteristics of treadmills, they usually mean the dimensions of the working area — that is, the platform within which the user's legs stay during training. There are a number of points that determine the optimal length and width of the canvas.
The long treadmill length ensures safety — less likely to seriously stumble and fall out of rhythm. On the other hand, a long canvas requires a more powerful motor, and the dimensions of the simulator increase accordingly. With all this in mind, it is believed that the optimal length for home use is 120 – 130 cm; longer tracks are designed for use in fitness centers and professional training.
Both safety and comfort when using the simulator also depend on the width of the canvas; This parameter is especially important for people of large build — on a narrow canvas, they can be “cramped”. On the other hand, as in the case of length, a large width means a large size of the simulator itself. In general, entry-level models have a canvas up to 40 cm, in more advanced tracks there are options for 45 cm, and for professional use this figure can reach 50 cm.
In fact, when choosing a treadmill according to the size of the canvas, it is best not only to take into account all of the above, but also to try out the option that interests you in fact before making a purchase. After all, a lot depends on personal characteristics and preferences, and it is possible that...a seemingly suitable simulator will be small — or vice versa, a more compact and inexpensive option is quite suitable.
