Treadmills UK Guide
Running Speeds:
Here's a quick and easy way to help you choose what speed is suitable for your type of Cardio workout:

Deck Cushioning and Deck Technology:
Usually made out of laminated wood around an inch thick, the deck lies underneath the running belt and absorbs the hundreds of pounds of force that each step drives into it. Using lubricants to reduce friction and heat. the deck is the main line of defence against mechanical wear and "amp draw" - a condition that slowly pulls power away from and eventually damages the electronics of your machine.
The type of running platform which your machine will have depends very much on its physical loading capacity and of course its price. Small domestic treadmills that can only handle body weights not exceeding say 60Kg (approx. 132 Lb) will come fitted with just a single deck directly mounted to the machines subframe. Larger machines for home use normally have a cushioned running deck on which the platform you run on, sits on a number of elastomer cushions that are mounted to the treadmills sub-frame. We strongly recommend the latter in design in that a cushioned deck provides impact absorption and gives you some degree of protection and comfort during your workout. "Softness" is an important feature to consider when looking at treadmill decks. Many of us have experienced shinsplints and other injuries from running on asphalt and other hard surfaces. Treadmill manufacturers try to reduce this jarring and its negative effects by providing a softer running surface. While almost all modern treadmills provide some cushioning effect, the amount of shock-absorption varies widely. High-end treadmills use shock absorbers such as springs and elastomer bearings that reduce the impact of your footfalls up to 40 percent more than running on asphalt. Less expensive models use felt pads that reduce impact, but not to the same extent.
Many machines feature reversible decks that can be turned over when these quality laminates finally do wear through. Simply have a technician flip the deck over and it should provide many more years of friction protection. As you might expect, quality-control problems begin creeping in as the price goes down. Many lower-end models require you to frequently spray a friction-reducer onto the deck; otherwise, it will quickly wear out.

Deck Sizes:
If your planning to jog or sprint, the greater the surface area you have to run on the better. Always choose a machine that has a wide running mat so that you have some degree of latitude whilst exercising. There's nothing worse than restricting your freedom of movement whilst working out or even worse tripping up on any obstacles that surround you!

Console and Electronics:
An electronic treadmill is a sophisticated workout machine consisting of a great number of high-tech components. Your pre-purchase budget will ultimately decide on the level of sophistication your machine will carry. Do not compromise price with the machines body-loading capacity (limit) and/or horse power motor rating as this normally leads to one outcome - disaster! Mains power supply varies from country to country. Please make sure that you specify the power supply rating you require when ordering your machine. We only supply treadmills that operate on 110V/60Hz (USA), 240V/50Hz (UK) and 220V/50Hz (Europe) All electric treadmills are power-rated by the size of their motor. Its very simple - the greater a machines HP rating the more powerful that machine is. Most electronic models use digital PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) technology to power a DC rated motor unit. In general, the higher a treadmills HP rating, the faster the machine (as well as greater load handling). As a rule-of-thumb, your minimum motor rating should not be less than 1.75 HP when choosing a treadmill. Always aim to make your treadmill purchase with this very important specification in mind. If more than one member will be using the machine, then you must base your load rating on the heaviest person who will be using it!

Reliability and Other Points to Consider:
Undoubtedly quality is the most important aspect to consider. The last thing you want is finding your machine out of action in the middle of a CV workout. Choose a machine that meets your requirements in terms of body weight handling as well as its type of use (i.e. constant (continuous) use or periodic use). Whichever machine ultimately takes your fancy, it will at some stage need some degree of maintenance. Most reputable brands offer only low maintenance machines requiring a low level of basic maintenance and adjustment. Modular in design, replacement parts can be quickly and easily installed. If your purchasing a machine without any warranty, then you may be handling a can of worms at some later date. Only with a brand new machine will you get warranty cover in the first year(s). Sensible use and good maintenance normally yield many years of trouble free use. Treadmillsonline offer a two year motor warranty on all its products. We also include a basic checklist maintenance program that will extend the life of your machine if adhered to.... Before you buy draw up a 'wish list' like the one shown below. Prioritise on what are 'MUST' features first:

Safety Aspects:
Motorised treadmills keep working when you stop! However, you should be OK as long as you remember a few basic guidelines when choosing a treadmill. For starters, always make sure your treadmill has a 'Stop Safety' key function that automatically stops it if you stumble, trip or fall whilst the treadmill is in operation. This is simply a tether that is attached to your clothing that deactivates a switch and shuts off the treadmill if pulled. Arm grips or side safety bars also help as well. They allow you to catch yourself if you trip and keep you from falling off the machine. Most users prefer side rails, which are useful so long as they give your arms enough room to move freely during your cardio workout.