Different manufacturers may list their machines specifications differently, so when comparing machines it is important to compare like with like, also compare machines about the same cost, you will not get the same features or quality when comparing a budget end model with a top price model!

Below is a list of the most common terms you are going to come across amongst the various treadmills available in the market currently.

Manual

A treadmill you operate by pushing the conveyor belt with your feet.

Some manual treadmills contain magnets to make it move more smoothly

Motorised

An “ electric treadmill” – containing electric motors that move the belt and may also tilt the track for you as you walk or run

Belt

The ‘track’ of the treadmill

Deck

The underlying structure the belt runs over

Console

The controls on the front panel of the treadmill

Display

The digital readout, usually an LCD display, on the front panel of the treadmill showing e.g. average speed and/or distance travelled

Frame

The structure, usually a metal tubular framework that all the moving parts of the treadmill attach to

Folding Treadmill

Where space is an issue a folding treadmill does what it says, so that it takes up about 50% less space when

compared to a non-folding one.* See note about folding machines build quality lower down age*

Heart monitor

A sensor that takes your pulse and displays it to you

Calorie counter

A calculation of the energy burnt (calories used) during the session can be displayed, great if you’re in to counting calories as part of a weight loss plan

Incline

The tilt of the conveyor belt surface that simulates uphill running

Programmes

Different workout programmes available on a motorised treadmill

Surface