OT: Budget treadmills

[AnthonyL]

[Joe]

My wife got through three before giving up and switching to a cross-trainer. All within a year, replaced under warranty.

The problem was that the moving belt ran across a stationary plate, and even though we were oiling under the belt as recommended, the friction was still too much for the motor. I suppose top of the range models use an array of very thin rollers under the belt, or possibly a much larger motor.

She was well under the maximum recommended weight limit, by the way. I forget what make, but a reputable one.

[Tim+]

Nah, that would never work. They all have a flat deck beneath the belt. A belt flexible enough to go over the main drive roller would sag under foot impact with every step. It would be most unpleasant to run on!

Best bet would be a quality used one. Will have done most of its depreciation and if not heavily used probably be easy to sell on.

Tim

[AnthonyL]

That makes sense, thanks for the heads-up.

I'm guessing a thicker and stronger belt rather than supporting rollers (uncomfortable).

[Andy Burns]

I was going to suggest a cross-trainer as being easier on the knees ...

[soup]

Nah forget that. Pair of socks on your feet and stand on some highly polished parquet flooring and try walking/running, costs nothing. ;O)

[GB]

I sadly got some PTFE spray on our kitchen vinyl floor, with a similar effect. :)