If you’re looking to make TV time healthier or want to be able to exercise regardless of the weather, it’s time to invest in a home treadmill.
A treadmill can definitely be a life-changing purchase for those wishing to turn their fitness regime around and lead a healthier life. However, buying one is not always as straightforward as you may think. When it comes to purchasing a treadmill, you don't want to make a rash decision as many machines have different qualities suited to different individuals' needs. Read on for everything you need to know about treadmills and also our top 10 picks!
Featured Image Source: Rebel Sport Instagram
Where to buy the best treadmills in Australia
There are multiple options for where you can buy a treadmill. Many Australian retailers stock popular treadmills listed or other models from the same brand. Our top picks to purchase your treadmill are Gym and Fitness and Rebel Sport. They have a wide selection of different treadmills from multiple brands so you can find one that fits your purpose and need. Here are a few retailers selling home treadmills online.
Top 10 best treadmills in Australia
Cost: $995.00
1. Proform 400I Treadmill
This model does sit at the lower end of the price scale so it’s a good option for those just starting out. While it is on the cheaper side, it’s important to note the treadmill only has a 55-inch running track and is of a slightly lower quality than others. It does have multiple other benefits as it frees up floor space – you can tilt the deck upward when this treadmill’s not in use. It also contains 18 built-in workouts that automatically adjust the speed and incline.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- It has an iPod-compatible port and a set of Intermix Acoustics 2.0 speakers
- The automated ramp helps you burn calories more quickly, target different muscle groups and lighten the load on your knees
- Using your tablet computer or other device, you can exercise along “Powered by Google Maps” trails that you design and download customised treadmill workouts.
Cost: $2,499.00
2. NordicTrack C990 Treadmill
This option is a more versatile choice for people as it has a significant range of training options for all fitness levels and also allows you to customise your training goals. It possesses an automated 15% incline to get you going as well as 32 built-in workout programs so you don’t have to worry about that!
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- A smooth-running track measures 60-inch x 20-inch – long enough for most runners
- Optional cushioning for extra joint protection
- A large capacity with a max weight of 147kg
Cost: $3,499.00
3. Sole F80 Treadmill
Sole treadmills are definitely up there with the higher-standard models. The Sole F80 earns its stripes with a super-sized 22-inch x 60-inch running surface so most individuals, both runners and walkers, can benefit from this machine. You also receive the option of a wireless chest strap or monitors on the hand rails for your own convenience. However, while these handrails are supplied for stability they aren’t as long as some runners would like.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- The trainee can use a cord that stops the treadmill if they lose balance
- Ten workout programs including manual mode to support goals for cardio training, weight loss and muscle toning
- Can easily be folded to save space. Just flip a switch and the deck will slowly reposition itself for vertical storage
Go to Amazon Australia website
Cost: $3,499.00
4. Life Fitness F1 Smart
This treadmill is perfect for the steady walker. However, its 55-inch x 20-inch track is not quite long enough for running. In addition, it’s completely space friendly, giving the option to fold up vertically so it doesn’t take up floor space. It’s ready to tone up those muscles and boost that metabolism with a 15% incline and the ability to save three of your favourite inclines too.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- An included chest strap for the most accurate heart rate
- Advanced cushioning can reduce shock on your body by up to 30%
- Is an energy saver, designed to automatically reduce its power draw when the user takes a break
Cost: $2,299.00
5. NordicTrack Commercial 1750
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is the high-quality all-rounder treadmill for walkers and runners. You can utilise the 7-inch control panel in order to access workout programming and even browse the Internet! Plus, get the most out of your money with 38 programs designed by a certified personal trainer. The treadmill deck can incline up to 15% and decline to 3%. This electronic feature allows you to boost your metabolic rate, sculpt lean muscles and keep boredom at bay.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- Exercise for longer with help from AutoBreeze fans, which can adjust to your workout pace or be manually set
- Lifetime guarantee on the motor and frame, five years on parts and two years of service
- Sturdy unit has a 136kg maximum user weight
Cost: $2,799.00
6. Matrix TF30
This treadmill is perfect for the individual who doesn’t have a lot of space to lose! The Matrix TF30 is the high-end foldable treadmill that is incredibly easy to store, regardless of limited space. It is definitely designed for the shorter runner with a track of 55 inches, so if you’re on the taller side, you’d probably give this one a miss.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- Take a vacation from ordinary training with Virtual Active videos. These let you virtually travel the world with authentic soundtracks and high definition views
- A 1-inch patented Ultimate Deck provides a comfortable balance of firmness and impact absorption to prevent fatigue
- Has a home warranty with lifetime protection for the frame, motor and cushioning
Cost: $5,499.00
7. Life Fitness Club Series
Okay serious runners, this one has got your name on it! The Life Fitness Club Series is a premium club-style treadmill made for home gyms. The 4 horsepower motor is absolutely club quality as it is both quiet and effective for speeds up to 23km/h. It has a pretty standard 15% incline but an impressive 60-inch x 20-inch track, making it suitable for walkers and runners alike. It is important to note this treadmill is large and heavy, so space is definitely required.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- Life Fitness tracks reduce the impact to joints by almost 30%
- Treadmill has 22 workout programs, including programs that are controlled by the trainee’s heart rate
- A wireless heart monitor and a chest strap are included
Cost: $5,499.00
8. Landice L8
Now this treadmill is a bit of a beast when it comes to home exercise machines. The Landice L8 possesses an extra-large track for the home, and it's commercial grade. It is suitable for all users but definitely allows runners to get the most out of it. With a 0 to 15% power incline, and speed settings from 0.5 to 19.3km/h mph plus track cushioning that is five times more absorbent than grass, we don’t have much to argue with!
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- A powerful motor that supports sprints up to 19.3 km/h and has a lifetime warranty
- Has a 22-inch x 63-inch running surface. That’s extra-wide and extra-long compared to club standards
- All versions of the L8 for 2017 have wireless heart rate receivers
Cost: $1,449.00
9. LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill Desk
Now this is a contraption that is downright genius. Forget a standing desk; check out this treadmill desk! Get work done and get fit at the same time. If that isn’t enough for you, it comes in eight different colours, and for a custom fit the desktop has a wide range of height settings. The treadmill does not possess an incline which may be an issue for some but is still the perfect option to turn your working lifestyle into your fitness lifestyle too!
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- A significant height range: If you’re between 4’10” and 6’8” this will work for you
- Super simple assembly so you can be working out within 30 minutes of delivery
- A large capacity with a max weight of 156kg
Go to Lifespan Fitness website
Cost: $2,499.00
10. NordicTrack Incline X11i trainer
This treadmill is not here to mess around! The NordicTrack incline trainer keeps quite close to its name with a whopping 40% increase in incline. This way, you’re gonna really be able to push yourself, your muscles and your cardio as you’ll feel like you’re running up Mount Everest, not your friendly hill up the road.
Some major benefits associated with this treadmill:
- Up to five times your normal calorie burn
- Minimal soreness or chance of injury
- Targeted muscle toning
Which treadmill brand is best?
When it comes to buying a treadmill, it isn’t necessarily about the brand. It is more about the type of machine that fits your workout needs, how you intend to use it, the space you have and what features you’re after. For instance, one brand may specialise in smaller and lighter treadmills while another may be better at producing treadmills for runners.
Things to consider before you buy
Use
Before buying your treadmill, your intended use is important to think about. Treadmills are created for specific purposes, whether it be walking, running, interval training or all of the above. Therefore it’s important to choose one that will suit your needs!
Space
It is important to note that a treadmill is bound to take up some space. Therefore you need to consider where it will go and if you intend to leave it in one place, or whether you will want to move it around. There are treadmills of larger stature, which are suitable for cases where they won’t be moved, or options that are more compact and even foldable. This is something to consider in terms of size and weight when choosing your treadmill.
Features
There are multiple fancy features that come with treadmills. Looking into what features suit your needs best is always important when choosing which to buy.
Is a treadmill or elliptical better?
An elliptical and treadmill are two of the most popular exercise machines and both are regularly found in gyms and homes. Which is better does come down to what an individual is looking to gain out of their exercise. The main con in purchasing a treadmill is the effect on your joints. However, of the top treadmills we have listed, all include features that ease the strain on your joints, so the main negative surrounding treadmills does become somewhat irrelevant. Additionally, treadmills offer more versatility and the motor of a treadmill forces you to work out of your comfort zone. Compare this to an elliptical machine where the main form of exercise that will get you a significant form of calorie burn is high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is not everyone’s cup of tea.
Is a treadmill good for weight loss?
Without a doubt, treadmills are one of the most effective ways to burn calories. Treadmills allow you to exercise interval training and high intensity interval training, which are both proven to be excellent at burning calories. In doing so, they cause your heart rate to rise and fall, and therefore allows the body to use more oxygen during the lower interval, which in turn burns more calories than normal workouts.
A common misconception surrounding treadmills is that they are just the machine to spend 15 minutes on before hitting the weights. However, the truth is that it’s one of the most effective cardio machines and if used properly, will help you reach your fitness goals.
Why should you buy a treadmill?
- Burns calories
Without a doubt, running is your best bet when it comes to burning calories. When you pair this with custom workouts aimed at targeting certain areas, losing weight is a sure thing. Treadmills allow you to take part in interval training and HIIT (high-intensity interval training), which are both proven to burn calories and increase weight loss.
- Excellent cardio workout
There is nothing that compares with running and a good cardio workout that gets the heart pumping. HIIT workouts done on treadmills effectively increase your metabolism, as well as significantly building up your stamina and endurance. However, that's not your only option – walking for long periods of time is also a highly effective way to burn calories and increase your cardio.
- Safer for your body
As previously mentioned, a talked-about con of running is the impact on your joints. However, running on a treadmill is much better for your body than running on pavement. This is due to the technology included in treadmills that allows cushioning for your joints, reducing the impact that running can have on them. You can throw the saying “no pain, no gain” out the window and enjoy exercising comfortably on a treadmill.
- Happiness!
The good ol’ saying of having a “runner's high” is definitely more fact than fiction. Through running, your body releases endorphins and can completely turn your mood around or just add to an already-existing mood. You’ll therefore not only look great but feel great and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that!
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