#1) Getting Taken in by the Icing
The 'icing' is all of the non-essential treadmill goodies that some lesser-quality treadmills offer you. These are meant to hide the fact that the essential factors of a quality treadmill aren’t there.
So what if it’s only a 1.5 HP motor – it comes with a free heart rate monitor! That 90 day only warranty doesn't matter – it gives you 30 workout programs!
This is like buying a cake after only seeing the icing and then finding out that the icing is ALL there is. Focus on the core essentials of a quality treadmill first - then enjoy the goodies.
#2) The Old Motor Horsepower Trick
Some not-so-savory treadmill manufacturers or stores will try to impress you with the peak duty motor power. Wow - you think - a 3.0 hp motor. However, what they fail to tell you that there are 2 measures of motor power: Peak Duty Horsepower AND Continuous Duty Horsepower.
Peak Duty Horsepower is the power potential of the motor – the highest power it can run at. However the treadmill cannot sustain this power and it will soon start to overheat. So this measurement is essentially useless to you.
Continuous Duty Horsepower is a more accurate measure of the motor power. This is the power at which the treadmill can continually, steadily operate for 24 hours without slowing down. Thus, this is the more accurate number to gage motor power.
I know of one extremely popular treadmill right now that is doing this and unfortunately people are buying it in droves because it seems like such a good buy.
Don’t be fooled by a 3 HP peak duty horsepower rating when the Continuous Duty HP is only 1.5HP! Just remember that the motor is the most expensive part of the treadmill to fix!
#3) Considering Price as the Most Important Factor
Although price is an important factor, your health is the most important factor. And a treadmill is an investment in your health. Do you want to wreck your joints or give yourself permanent back problems just to save a couple hundred bucks?
Unfortunately, this happens all too often. I know of one woman who did permanent damage to her hips because she bought a cheap treadmill with cheap cushioning and then ran on it. It took barely 4 months and she was in so much pain, she couldn't even walk on her treadmill.
Here's the worst part: it doesn't have to be this way. You CAN find a high quality treadmill for a reasonably low price - if you know where to look.
That’s why online treadmill wholesalers are skyrocketing in popularity – they offer top name brands at up to 45% off retail price. (For a list of reputable online treadmill stores check out our 'Where To Buy' section).
While it's true that not all of us can afford a $4000 commercial treadmill, there are higher quality treadmills out there for under $1500 and even some under $1000. Don't sacrifice your health just to save a buck.
#4) Thinking That a Health Club Membership is Cheaper Than a Treadmill
Ok, this isn't a buying mistake but it can save you money and it's a common myth that many people believe.
Consider this: the average lifespan of a treadmill is 10 years (and if you take care of it the treadmill will last much longer). So let’s say you went all out and bought a $1500 treadmill. That is $150 a year to work out in the comfort of your own home, any time that you want.
Your local health club membership will probably cost you $30-60 a month or $360-$720 a year. (And a really upscale membership can cost you up to $1000 a year). That’s more than double what you are paying per year if you buy a treadmill
But wait, you say, a health club membership gives you more than just treadmills. There’s bikes and rowing machines and weights….
You’re right, there is more OFFERED from a health club membership. But here’s the question:
Will you use it?
For most people, time constraints are the #1 excuse they give for not exercising. Many people have great intentions - but unfortunately not the time to carry them out. And they don't end up using their membership as much as they want to - which means they end up paying money for something they aren't using.
For most people, the convenience of a home treadmill far outweighs the benefits offered by a health club. For the time-pressed exerciser a home treadmill is a much smarter health investment than a gym membership.
#5) Not Considering Your OWN Personal Workout Needs Before Buying
That’s great that you found a quality treadmill for $999. But have you considered the fact that you are 6 feet tall and that treadbelt is only 52” long?
When shopping for a treadmill, many people fall into the trap of ONLY looking at treadmills and never looking at themselves.
For example, are you tall or are you planning to run a lot? Then you need to make sure the treadbelt is at least 55".
Are you, or is someone in your household a little on the sturdy side? Then it’s probably best to get a treadmill especially built to take heavier weights.
Do you have back problems or a weak back? Then if you want a folding treadmill, it might be better to purchase one with a power folding option so that you can reduce the strain of heavy lifting.
Remember to consider your own needs when looking at treadmills
Regardless of which treadmill you choose - try to steer clear of these common mistakes and you'll save yourself a load of grief (and a ton of money!)
Or if you are looking for wholesale treadmill discounts, fast service and extensive online experience, check out our list of "Where To Buy A Treadmill"
