A well-constructed treadmill is a piece of home exercise equipment that every member of your family can enjoy, from young to old. Treadmills have become the hottest home exercise equipment choice. If you are yet to invest in a serious piece of indoor exercise fitness equipment like a treadmill then never fear because help is at hand.

With treadmills you need to watch out for the impact involved when your feet hit the belt; your body absorbs up to two and a half times your body weight. A few treadmill models are powered by the user rather than a motor. Some treadmills fold up for easy storage which makes them an ideal choice for those with limited space in a small apartment, small house or condo.

The console indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, distance, etc. Features such as extra cup holders, built-in fans, CD players and other electronic gizmos may be handy but not essential for you to get an ideal workout. The monitor indicates belt speed and other factors, such as heart rate, mph, and distance.

Safety features on a treadmill are especially important if you plan to work out alone or if you have small children who might accidentally start up the treadmill.

One feature that is absolutely necessary in a home treadmill is an emergency stop button or a safety key that automatically shuts off the power if you should stumble, trip or fall. Many of the treadmills available have the ability to add an incline to your workout to duplicate running or walking uphill, therefore increasing the intensity of a workout.

Notice that some treadmill heart rate monitors clip onto an ear or, for more accurate readings, strap on to the chest. A pre-programmed workout registers your heart rate without being connected to the treadmill by a cord or wire.

Treadmills are a very important investment, regardless of the price; if it's not right for you, you don't want to find this out after you've set the treadmill up at home. Consider bringing your water bottle and towel to the treadmill store and try out their treadmills. Any treadmill with a belt that causes jerky movements while you walk or run should be avoided.

Noise from the smallest repetitive sound can drive you nuts over a period of time and provide you with one more reason not to exercise. If you're looking for a heavy-duty treadmill that can withstand running as well as walking, be prepared to spend more money. You'll want a treadmill with an aluminum or high alloy steel frame that's strong enough to support the heaviest runner who'll be using it.

If there's a treadmill you've enjoyed using regularly at your local gym or fitness center check to see if there's a home version available in your price range.

Make sure to add in the cost of shipping when purchasing a treadmill online; quality models can be heavy, but some manufacturers do offer free shipping. It's best to get a treadmill that has a warranty that lasts for at least a year.

You'll probably want to buy a unit with a motor that delivers 1.5 to 3 continuous horsepower. Purchasing fitness equipment over the Internet has grown at a fast pace over the past few years. Most manufacturers of commercial treadmills found in gyms and health clubs also produce home versions. Make sure to check out the warranty, this is very important.

Be careful, any type of jogging or running, whether on a treadmill or not, puts strain on leg and hip joints. The more programs the treadmill offers the more you can vary your workout and then more likely you'll continue exercising on a regular basis.

Selections of preprogrammed exercise routines are not essential to obtaining a good workout from a treadmill, but they do help to provide motivation. Better quality treadmills provide excellent cushioning to limit the impact on knees, ankles, hips and lower backs.

And remember, home exercise treadmills are a large investment financially and in your fitness and much thought and preparation should go into the purchase of any new treadmill. Buying a treadmill is a major purchase for most people. A treadmill is a good investment for anyone who has decided to make a conscious effort to become healthy and fit.