Electric treadmills: description, model range and subtleties of use

There is a huge amount of training projectiles and physical fitness equipment. But even against this background, electric treadmills stand out favorably.

The earliest running tracks appeared at the end of the XIX century. Then it was a purely mechanical device, used strictly for medical needs. The design was very simple, and the basic “running” knots turned out to be the same as now. Even after 100 years, the design has hardly changed, only the simplest controllers and displays were added. The main difference of any electric treadmill, whatever the model, is always the presence of the engine.

Compared to mechanical models, electric have several advantages:

• better suited for cardio;
• reduce stress on the joints and provide the necessary degree of depreciation;
• make classes more comfortable;
• allow you to use a variety of exercise programs, that is, more effectively and flexibly to exercise.

Electric devices are equipped with AC or DC drives. Variable electricity is a feature of relatively expensive and powerful devices. Such motors more reliably and better resist peak electrical load. Often there are additional options - control the frequency of heartbeats, drawing up individual work programs. Modern simulators are powerful in performance and look more impressive than their mechanical counterparts.

Additional properties include:

• the presence of speakers (usually not too high quality, but for training quite sufficient);
• the use of sometimes linear inputs;
• compatibility of track electronics with other devices;
• the ability in some models to adjust the slope of the canvas.

But it is important to understand that electric treadmills in a number of parameters are inferior to mechanical analogues:

• are expensive;
• weigh very much;
• occupy a significant place (only home-class models simply fold and help save space);
• there is a need to connect the device to a network of 220 V;
• void the warranty if the connection is made to a socket without additional grounding and stabilizers are not used.

According to its performance, modern electric treadmills would be more correctly called electronic devices. In addition to the drive from the electric motor, which supplies a mechanical impulse to one of the shafts, they also have complex control devices. Economical devices are equipped with motors with a capacity of up to 1.5 liters. with. Such devices disperse the tape a maximum of 15 km / h. The slowest speed is usually 1.6 km / h.

The canvas in the tracks of economy class has a width of up to 0.41 m, and this solution is considered optimal for home use. Amateur products are in demand mainly in small fitness clubs. But seriously interested in fitness at home can purchase such a device. The speed of the canvases can reach 16 km / h.

Amateur-class devices are equipped with collector motors and have a canvas from 0.41 to 0.45 m.In this case, the control panels are more developed than usual and can also register certain events. Such systems remove indicators:

• speed running or fast walking;
• heartbeat;
• time spent;
• consumed calories.

An electric drive transmits energy to a pair of shafts. These shafts are connected to a rotating ring belt. Tape cloth can have a width of from 0.35 to 0.73 m with a length of 1.1-2 m. The most advanced designs in descriptions can be attributed to the Hi-End class. They are equipped, depending on the decision of engineers, collector or brushless electric motors.

The speed of the blade can be up to 18 km / h. All tracks of this class are interactive, and therefore a careful control of the pulse is carried out, excluding the excess of its standard indicators. Such products are designed for use both at home and in rehabilitation facilities. The most advanced professional type is characterized by high durability and stability even with vigorous use. In any case, all components, including the engine, are placed on a special frame.

And these frames are made of steel or aluminum alloys. The second option is considered easier and allows you to better absorb the movement. It is also important the absence of corrosion. Sometimes additional cushioning systems are used.

Choosing an electric treadmill for the house, should not be given preference to the narrowest models. The most practical canvas width of 0.4-0.5 m with a length of 1.2-1.3 m. The tapes themselves should consist of 2 or 3 layers. Bilateral deck in good models coated with wax or other impregnations. It is useful to even visit the nearest fitness club and see what equipment is installed there.

When buying a treadmill at a sports store, you should immediately check how it operates at different speeds when the slope is unequal. The most expensive versions can have an LCD screen showing movies, TV shows and other videos directly during training. Such advanced devices are often connected to the Internet and allow you to use the vibratory massage. Of course, the design of such models will amaze the imagination in the literal and figurative sense.

But if in the first place for a person the opportunity to put the device in a limited space of an apartment or a private house, then compact folding walkways without handrails are best suited. They will not be difficult to put in the corner or put under the bed. No less important point - the mass of its own trainees. If it does not exceed 90 kg, then the track with a 1.5 liter engine will be enough. with. Important: it is recommended to focus on a certain margin, because a continuous load at the marginal level accelerates the failure.

Despite all the standard wishes regarding the length and width of the running belt, you need to take into account your own preferences. The canvas should be such that the workout on it is free, and you can always step aside in one step.

All the same, it cannot be achieved steadily with any lengthy training session - this is just the peak load. Important: professional athletes who are preparing to run or walk in competitions over rough terrain, it is better not to use tracks with particularly strong cushioning.

A speed over 13 km / h is really needed only by professional runners. But for heart training, the optimal acceleration is not more than 12 km / h. Changing the slope will allow you to simulate movement on uneven terrain. With regard to the measurement of the pulse, the most accurate method of it is the use of chest belts. Measurement when touching the handrails is convenient for “walkers”, but for “runners” this method is hardly suitable.

To use a purchased machine, need to:

• stand on the runners from the sides and take up the handles;
• press the accelerated start button;
• start moving;
• adjust the speed using standard controls;
• stop motion when workout is over.

Categorically you can not get up, the more jump on the fast-moving tracks. First, they are placed on the side skids, and on the sheet itself they go, having lowered the speed in advance. More sophisticated work with the track will require study instructions. They prescribe in detail how to create programs, and what they should be in each case. The compilers of the manual also provide instructions for setting a specific slope and using other functions.

The first step is always mastering the launch and shutdown of a particular device. At the same time, it is worthwhile to master the transition between speeds and the inclination level change. Then you will need to familiarize yourself with the main functions and learn how to develop programs on your own.

Periodically required to lubricate the canvas. If you do this exactly as prescribed in the instructions, the service life will last substantially, and repairs will be required less often. Repair should be done with the help of professionals. DIY repair is very risky. The most important and frequently used program is "running through the hills."

You should also explore such programs and options as:

• pulse zone;
• program with intervals;
• increased endurance;
• determination of the current level of fitness;
• fat burning.

Good sets of programs are used on electric treadmills of optimal models. The ratings consistently include brands such as DFC, Carbon Fitness, TRNEO, Performa Efold, Torneo Olympia. An excellent choice is considered and HouseFit products. This company has been operating in the USA since 1979. It was originally created for the release of home segment simulators. Of the folding models, attention is drawn to the HT-9172E, designed for speeds up to 16 km / h. The working plane is 1.25x0.44 m. Automatic equipment corrects the angles of inclination from zero to 12%. The manufacturer claims that the motor of this model is very noisy, and overload protection is provided. Installed a liquid crystal display with a diagonal of 5 inches.

A good alternative can be considered Sport Elite. On the SE-T1502 you can run at a speed of 10 km / h. This track is equipped with a canvas of 1.04x0.36 m. It is driven by a motor designed for 1.5 liters. with. Model SE-T1512 has the following characteristics:

• the highest speed is 6 km;
• the size of the working platform - 1.05 x0.41 m;
• the maximum allowable weight of the trainee is 100 kg.

Out tracks Atemi AT 627 deserves attention. A canvas of 1.07x0.4 m is placed in it. The product can be folded. An important positive feature for many people will be the presence of an LCD display. The engine produces a force of 1 liter. with. The console shows what the current speed and how much is passed. The AT 906 has other characteristics - a canvas with a size of 1.32 x0.42 m, the motor produces a force of 2 liters. with. It is also worth looking at UnixFit MX-450V. The manufacturer claims that it is not just a compact, but also a very reliable product. At the peak of power, it gives a force of 3 liters. with. (during long work - 2 hp.).

The canvas can be tilted up to 15%. A good choice often becomes Iron Master IRMT801. The electric motor of this track develops a force of up to 1.5 liters. with. The pulse is measured using steel sensors placed on the handles. The monitor gives information about the consumption of calories during exercise.

Complete a review of running simulators on NordicTrack C990.

The company description contains the following parameters:

• fast (up to 22 km / h) run;
• tilt up to 12 degrees;
• over 30 heterogeneous programs;
• 7 inch display;
• Internet access to a remote application;
• connector for the player.

How to choose the right treadmill, see the next video.