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Choosing a Treadmill for the Elderly: Expert Buying Guide

By kbeveridge

Choosing a Treadmill for the Elderly

Treadmills are devices you can use to perform cardiovascular exercises without leaving the comfort and safety of your home. They are also a perfect option for seniors looking to walk or run in a controlled environment.

In today’s expert buying guide, we’ll tell you all you need to know about choosing a treadmill for the elderly. We discuss all the different types, where to buy them, and the essential features to consider in choosing the best treadmill for seniors.

What Is a Treadmill?

A treadmill is a device that you can use to exercise your core and lower body. It allows you to walk and run without going outside.

Although treadmills began as machines used to create power using animals or humans, they are now common machines you can find in most gyms and home gyms, with many health benefits.

The machine provides a belt that allows you to move by walking on it. It is an excellent option for people that require cardiovascular workouts or for elderly who find it hard to walk around the neighborhood.

What Are The Major Types Of Treadmills?

You can find different types of treadmills that offer additional features depending on what you want and need:

  • Manual treadmill: Your effort powers a manual treadmill. The faster you move, the faster the treadmill belt will move. It tends to be the most affordable option, but it doesn’t offer many safety features.
  • Motorized treadmill: This treadmill lets you adjust the difficulty by increasing or decreasing the machine’s incline. It is a good option if you want to perform different workout levels.
  • Folding treadmills: A folding treadmill is a treadmill you can fold to save space when you are not using it. Most of these models include a locking mechanism that prevents the machine from moving when you use it. So you won’t have to worry about safety.
  • Commercial treadmills: commercial treadmills are the ones you can find in gyms. They often include excellent shock absorption surfaces, powerful motors, and an interactive computer. A commercial treadmill will also show you the time you’ve been training, the calories you’ve burned, and the distance you’ve walked or run.

What Are The Major Brands Of Treadmills?

These are some of the most reputable treadmill brands:

  • ProForm: ProForm is a training equipment brand that offers some of the best treadmills on the market. You also have the possibility of getting the treadmill at extra affordable prices as part of its ProForm+ membership.
  • Nautilus: Nautilus is one of the most famous training equipment brands in the world. They manufacture high-quality treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines. It tends to be more expensive than other brands but does offer the best possible features in every device.  
  • Nordictrack: Similar to ProForm, this brand allows you to finance your training equipment. You’ll be able to get your treadmill for as little as 45 USD a month for around three to four years, depending on your plan.
  • Bowflex: Bowflex is another renowned training equipment brand that offers state-of-the-art treadmills. Its devices come with powerful computers that allow you to stream your favorite shows from Netflix, Amazon, and more while you walk or run.

What Are The Best Places To Buy Treadmills?

Online

  • Best Buy: Best Buy is a platform that provides some of the best prices for many different devices and products. Here, you can find top-of-the-line treadmills at affordable prices.
  • Amazon: Amazon is one of the most famous online stores where you can find all sorts of devices, products, and more. Here you’ll be able to find different treadmill brands at different prices.
  • Facebook Marketplace: Facebook Marketplace is Facebook’s online store where you can find new and used products. Although it is not as widely used as Amazon or Craigslist, you can still find some interesting devices here.
  • Craigslist: Craigslist is the place to go if you are looking for second-hand treadmills. You can find excellent deals on this platform for modern devices.

You can also buy a treadmill directly through the brand’s online store. So, check the websites of ProForm, Nautilus, Nordictrack, and Bowflex.

In-Store

Additionally, you can find treadmills in stores like Walmart, Sears, or even in your local fitness store. They tend to offer discounts from time to time but usually cost more than buying online.  

What Specific Features Should A Senior Look For In A Treadmill?

Senior running on a treadmill

Safety Features

The most important thing you need to consider when buying a treadmill for a senior is the safety features. For instance, you should get a device that provides locking mechanisms so it won’t move while you use it.

Shock Absorption

Another feature you should consider is the shock absorption of the belt. The cheaper models have little to no shock absorption, but most commercial ones will offer it. It can prevent any possible injuries while you walk or run.

User-Friendly Interface

You should also consider getting a device that is easy to use. Some modern models can be a bit tricky for seniors as they offer endless settings and possibilities. So, consider getting a simple model that doesn’t require much effort to use.

Easy to Set Up

Treadmills offer the possibility of adjusting the difficulty level. You can set it up for walking, running, or climbing. So, we recommend you get a device that is not only easy to use but easy to set up too.

Durability

One more thing to consider is the durability of the machine. Manual treadmills and cheap models do not offer many features. They also tend to be less durable and resistant than most modern devices. Ensure that your treadmill will last long enough for you to get the most of your investment.

How To Get The Best Deal On A Treadmill?

If you are looking for the best deals for a treadmill, you should check in local gyms. They tend to sell second-hand devices at extra low prices because they are looking to get some money out of them. However, you should ensure that the machine is working properly before making a decision.

Conclusion

If you are looking to buy a treadmill for a senior, ensure that it is a safe device and that it is also easy to use. Treadmills are not cheap, but you can find excellent deals by talking with local gyms or fitness stores.

Overall, these devices can help you get back in shape and keep yourself healthy. So, ensure you know what your needs are and choose the best treadmill for you.


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