Looking for the best treadmill for runners? Running is hard on the body. That amount of force on your joints and ligaments takes a toll.
So if you're a runner you need a LOT more from your treadmill than an occasional walker.
You want a machine that can support the extra stress and force of the constant pounding feet on the deck.
Here are features to look for in a treadmill if you're going to be running on it:
#1) Strong, Well Built Motor
I get people emailing me a lot about this problem. They buy a cheaply made treadmill and then start running on it, only to have the motor cut out and the belt stop on them mid-run one day.
Not good - and very dangerous.
Make sure you're buying a brand that uses high quality, high powered motors. A good sign is a lifetime motor warranty and some type of cooling component to help extend the motor's life.
#2 Cushioning
This is absolutely essential to protect your body from the jarring impact of running. A good cushioning system will give you a measure of protection against the force of your step.
Sole treadmills for instance have been proven to reduce impact by 40% as compared to road running.
#3 Extra Long Belt
Most treadbelts range from 45" to 60" long. If you're a runner you need more space to pick up your pace. An average height runner for example will need at least a 55" long belt - longer if you can find it.
#4 Strong Deck
In addition to the cushioning, it's also essential to have a strong deck that can take a pounding and still holdup well. This is often a function of price. Don't expect anything under $800 to give you a strong deck.
Other Options
There are other options that some runners like but others don't. They include fitness tracking tools to you can chart how many miles you've logged and entertainment options like a built in TV or iPod dock to keep you entertained on those long runs.
Some runners also like motion control on their handrails that you'll find on the Smooth 9-series of treadmills. This means you can speed up or slow down with just the wave of your hand - so you don't have to break your stride.
So those are some key things to look for when choosing the best treadmill for a runner. We personally like the Sole brand of treadmills due to their industrial grade construction and their extra-long warranties. But the choice is yours.
No matter what you choose, take your time and choose a treadmill that gets you excited about using it.
