Best Exercise Equipment For Home Workouts

Motorized vs. Non-motorized Treadmills

One of the biggest decisions for prospective buyers is whether to purchase a motorized or a non-motorized treadmill. What is the difference? Basically, with a motorized treadmill, you have to keep pace as the machine's motor moves the tread-belt (at a speed you electronically set). With a non-motorized treadmill, you push the belt with your feet, so you only go as fast as you push. There are other differences as well. For one, non-motorized treadmills are much more affordable. Most are under $200. Conversely, high quality motorized models range from $1,000-$9,000 depending on the features you are looking for. There are models under $500, but they should be checked out thoroughly to make sure they are safe and can stand the test of time and endurance.

Non-motorized treadmills also take up much less space and, theoretically, can help you burn calories more efficiently, since you supply the muscle power to move the treadbelt. However, because you supply the muscle power, you tend to move slower and tire more quickly unless you are in good shape. As a result, you may actually burn fewer calories. Non-motorized models also have other drawbacks. Aerodynamics dictate that to get a non-motorized treadmill going, it has to be tilted on an incline. This can make running difficult if you are out of shape or not used to running. So, you derive less benefit. Finally, as you tire on a non-motorized treadmill, you will tend to push harder on one leg. This can make the motion of the treadmill choppy and harder to run on.