Exercise Treadmills Explained

Treadmills explained -Treadmills are pieces of indoor sporting equipment used to allow for the motions of running or walking while staying in one place. The word treadmill originally designated a type of mill which was operated by a person treading steps of a wheel to grind grain (see treadwheel.)

The principle is a belt system (an electric motor or flywheel connected to a circular run of material) where the top of the belt moves to the rear so as to allow a runner to run an equal, and necessarily opposite speed. Thus the speed of the run can easily be set or measured (the rate at which the belt moves is the rate at which the runner moves). The more expensive, heavy-duty versions are motor-driven. The simpler, lighter, cheaper versions are passive, moving only when the walker pushes the belt with their feet, and operates just to resist the motion.

Exercise Treadmills Advantages Explained

Some treadmills have special features such as step count, heart rate monitors, amount of calories expended.
Running or walking on a treadmill can be an effective way to workout compared to other complex cardiovascular exercises (similar to non-treadmill walking/running).
Home treadmills can be used in the home to avoid going to a gym. Users can do other things while exercising, such as watching television or reading.
Users who would not run/walk outdoors (e.g. due to unfavourable weather conditions, un-even road surfaces, dangerous neighbourhoods or people staring) may use an indoor treadmill.
Treadmills offer the benefit of reduced impact since all treadmills offer some sort of shock absorption. Exercising on a treadmill can reduce the strain to the ankles, knees and lower back of users.
Lack of wind resistance makes running on a treadmill slightly easier than it would otherwise be on an equal elevation grade outdoors.
As with all exercise, treadmills can increase endurance.
Known speeds at all times of the run, and being able to change speeds as needed.
As most of the factors of the run are known, the energy expended may be calculated.
Allows for exact adjustment of gradient and speed.  Disadvantages
Many users find treadmills boring and lose interest after a period.
Cost of purchase and electricity to run the treadmill is significantly greater than running outside.
Takes up space in homes (disadvantage reduced by "folding treadmill" option).
May cause personal injury if not used properly.
Can make a loud grinding noise if the belt keeps slipping, this can happen on cheap models.
Lack of wind resistance makes running on a treadmill easier than it would otherwise be on an equal elevation grade outdoors. Training for outdoor races is complicated due to the subtle differences.
Ordinary treadmills, even the expensive models at gyms and clubs, are not usually able to tilt at the steep slopes used on medical treadmills for standardized stress tests.
Imposes a strict pace on runners, giving an unnatural feel to running which can cause a runner to lose balance.
As with all forms of cardiovascular exercise, the risk of cardiac arrest is significantly increased. Treadmills may further this risk, as indoor comforts, such as air conditioning, may cause a user to feel more comfortable and less likely to stop due to exhaustion.

Exercise Treadmills Explained - Other uses

As it is basically a conveyor belt, the treadmill can be used for activities other than running. If horses are being tested (especially in jockey racing) they will be put on a specially constructed treadmill. Recently they were also the centerpiece of rock band Ok Go's music video for their song "Here it Goes Again".

Exercise Treadmills Repairs 

Treadmills are considered as the most complex type of fitness equipment to repair by repair professionals. They combine mechanical skills with electrical skills, and sometimes require computer skills in situations where the treadmill is used for stress testing in medical facilities.

Exercise Treadmill Brands

Epic treadmills, Healthrider treadmills, Horizon treadmills, Image treadmills, Keys treadmills, Landice treadmills, Life Fitness treadmills, Nordic Track treadmills, Pacemaster treadmills, Precor treadmills, ProForm treadmills, Reebok treadmills,  Sole treadmills, Smooth treadmills, Star Trac treadmills, Trimline treadmills, True treadmills, Noramco treadmills, Bowflex treadmills and Weslo treadmills.