If you have any kind of joint pain, going on a run outdoors on the pavement can be very painful. However, using a treadmill can be the solution to your pain.
One of the big advantages of using a treadmill, instead of running on hard surfaces, is that almost all of them now have cushioned belts. People who run consistently for ten or twenty years will probably be glad to tell you about their feet and knees.
Over time, the jarring effect of running can lead to joint pain. The cushioning mechanism is designed to reduce this jarring effect by reducing the impact of each step.
Research shows that running on one of these machines reduces impact on joints by as much as 15% compared to hard surfaces. Extended rest may allow joints to heal.
It also can actually strengthen them. No one would argue with that, but few actually do it.
This seems to be because runners feel so good when they run, and it does them so much good, that they find it very difficult to lay off very long. People tend to go back too soon.
Running with a cushioning mechanism can also make the running easier than going on a hard surface. When running on a hard surface, a certain amount of effort is required to propel yourself forward with your calves and to absorb the impact of the landing of your feet.
They reduce this effort because runners can exert more effort with the larger quadriceps muscles. This burns calories more efficiently.
Manufacturers naturally claim that their form of cushioning is the best. Trade names further the impression that that company's cushioning is unique.
It is difficult to determine the truth behind these claims and impressions since manufacturers typically give few details on how their cushioning mechanisms actually work. Most of the mechanisms do provide an adjustment that allows the user to choose a lever from rigid to very soft.
On more expensive machines, this adjustment can be made while using the machine. On others, the user must make this adjustment while off the treadmill.
Fortunately, this is one instance where consumers are not hurt by what they don't know. Nearly all cushioning mechanisms adjust the tightness of the belt by increasing or decreasing the tension of a form of spring that applies pressure against the underside of the belt.
Many suggest that owners adjust the tension to a level where they can feel the spring, but their footing stays solid. This makes sense for most people.
Treadmills are operated by a motor than turns the belt. The motor is sometimes referred to as the "heart" of the machine.
Without it, the machine is useless. This motor is typically between a 1.5 to 3 horsepower motor that allows for the belt to rotate as you walk, jog, or run.
What one has to be careful of is that it is not always the size of the motor that makes the best machine. The design of the belt, rollers, and the deck have a lot to do with the performance of the equipment.
The deck is an important component in not only the design of the equipment but also its performance. The first thing that you have to look at is the frame.
You want to make sure that it is solid. Steel is the best option for the frames.
The deck is an extension to the frame and what will support all of your weight. The constant pounding from your feet is what this portion of the equipment will need to be able to support.
The shock absorption is the biggest element to the machine. The rollers are what support the belt that in turn allows for you to walk, jog, or run.
The bigger and heavier they are, the better they are. Their job is to reduce the stress of the belt and motor.
This will in turn make it last much longer. Get a machine that will stay strong and durable for as long as possible.
You don't want to scrimp on cost, and get one that has to be replaced in not very long. Get your body into shape while protecting your joints, and taking care of your health.
Author Resource:-
Terry Daniels is a personal trainer and has authored hundreds of articles relating to physical training and treadmill. He has been a health expert and physical trainer for over 15 years.
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