[Audrey]

I'm going to be looking at buying a treadmill in the next few months, for the times when I just can't get out on the road for any number of reasons. What features do you think are most important for me to keep in mind? Obviously, it'll be for running, not walking, so I guess will need to be a bit sturdier. Any brands you've had experience and can recommend would be appreciated.<br><br>
Thanks<br><br>
Audrey

 

[Sisu]

I bought a Vision Fitness 9200 Simple TM (non-folding) about a year ago and I like it. I bought it from a local exercise equipment store that has a great service dept and Vision also offers a good warranty in the standard price. I bought the model (Simple) with the most basic console and I don't feel like I need programmed workouts so that wasn't a priority for me. My price range was $1000-1200 and the Vision was the best all around in that price range for what I tested.<br><br>
I also looked at Sole and it was nice but I preferred the Vision. I've also run on a Life Fitness that my friend has and that is really nice but was out of my price range.<br><br>
As far as what to look for the major thing for me was that it feel sturdy. The Vision is very solid feeling and there is no shaking when adjusting the incline. The warranty was also a big deal for me.<br><br>
Good luck in your search!

 

[mykemp1971]

I have a Sole - I know a few other KR's who have Sole, and did some homework shopping around, and looking at TreadmillDoctor for reviews.<br><br>
I ordered the Sole F-80, but they sent me the F-83 (one model up). It was $1499. They have a model the F-63 for $999, and I know of at least 2 KR runners who use that model for running.<br><br>
I run 50 miles per week. 15-20 are on the TM. I use it to help balance out my family time. My wife takes night classes twice a week, and the TM allows me to watch my son, and squeeze my runs in.<br><br>
I've actually gotten so that I like the TM for what it is. Softer surface, and it keeps you on pace. I use it for tempo runs, and intervals, but I also find it very refreshing to use the TM (and HR strap) for recovery runs. I find that it's easier to force myself to run slow and steady recovery runs on the TM.<br><br>
Like Sisu said. The warranty is very important. It's one of the reasons I went with the Sole, Sole has lifetime on motor, and frame, 5 years on the belt, and 2 years on the electronics (I believe).

 

[merigayle]

I have a Proform from Sears, have had it over two years, it gets heavy, heavy use from me and in the past 8 months, me and my DH. I have done long runs on it up to 5.5+ hours!

 

[Mailbox Head]

I'm with MyKemp. I got a Sole F80 this Winter, and I've put a lot of miles on it. Like he said, the warranty is nice, and it works really well. The only thing I'd caution you about on that one is that it does take up a lot of space, and it's kind of hard to move even when folded up. If you aren't planning on having it out almost permanently, you might want ot look at something else. That's not a big issue for me, so I love it.

 

[mykemp1971]

Yep I concur... I haven't moved it... but for me folding it is only handy when vacuuming under it. Ours is in our "bonus room" above the garage, in the corner, so space isn't an issue. I could have gone with one of the non-folding ones, but it is a nice option to move it. While moving it probably isn't easy, I'm still willing to bet that it would be easier to move than a non-folding TM.<br><br>
Also, Soles tech support/customer service is very good. When mine was shipped, it was missing a piece. I called and had the piece 2 days later. I also had questions about lubing the belt - I emailed, and my email was answered within a day.<br><br>
My Sole folding feels about as sturdy as my MIL/FIL's non folding TM, I forgot the model, but it's a nice one (they were former fitness club owners).

 

[KP]

I'm one of those other KR people with the Sole F63. Love it. Like Myron said, great customer service/warranty.

 

[runinbehind]

My husband and I bought a Precor (forget the model and I'm too lazy to go look right now) about 3 years ago. We spent considerably more than what folks here are talking about (foolishly, perhaps?). If I remember right, it was about $3000.<br><br>
Despite the cost, I've been very pleased with it. When the motor started whining last winter I had the service guy out to look at it. Turned out, it needed a new motor, which was completely covered by the LT warranty. (I did have to pay $55 for the service guy to install it).<br><br>
My real advice here is to try it out before you buy. I tend to run close to the front of the TM, and there were several models I tried that had belts that stopped too close to the front console. Our Precor is a good fit for me.

 

[kfuller]

I like the precor as that is the model that the Rec center has. Not sure of the price, but I be they cost like runninbehind says she spent. I would just try out some models and decided on what you like the best.

 

[fox-runr]

Landice.<br><br>
lifetime warranty and it's transferrable. My friend had bought his "used" and needed a motor replaced, covered.

 

[chances141]

I have a Landice for my home. About $2,500, I think. But we've NEVER had a single issue with it in almost five years. Top rated by Consumer Reports.