Treadmills are the aerobic exercise machine of choice for good reasons. They are probably the most enjoyable exercise machines, whether you typically like a slow, comfortable walk or a long run. Regardless of your age or fitness level, treadmills are suited for both intense and mild training, and therefore are one of the most effective pieces of exercise equipment you can buy. A study that compared exercisers who worked out equally hard for the same time on several different types of machines found that they generally burned the most calories on a treadmill. Consumer Reports research has shown that they're less likely to gather dust than other types of exercise machines.

There are many different ways to judge a treadmill. Some basic places to start include the types of preset programs there are and whether you will be able to create your own programs for repeated use. You'll also want to look for heart rate monitoring, easy speed and inclination adjustment and more. Take a look below at some of the key features and specifications to keep in mind and you'll be able to pick out a fantastic treadmill for your own needs.

Durability is evaluated by using a drum with pneumatic feet attached. The feet on the rotating drum pound the treadmill to simulate use by a 180-pound person jogging 500 miles, the equivalent of a year's worth of use by a recreational runner. Then the treadmill is taken apart and examined for damage.

Ergonomics (how the treadmill fits the user) and the machine's ease of use should also be looked at. You should be able to use a good treadmill intuitively, or at least without constantly referring to the owner's manual.

The Thickness of the Deck, the platform on which you'll run or walk, is also important. A deck that's at least three-quarters of an inch thick will stand up best to the impact of running. If you're short of space, look for a deck that folds up. Make sure you can lift the deck easily and that the latch holds it securely in place.

Foot rails are located on either side of the deck. Make sure you can stand on them while you start up the treadmill and that they're not tilted or wobbly. Look for a belt that's at least 17 inches wide and 51 inches long. A small belt increases your chances of stepping off accidentally when it's moving.

Also pay attention to the handrails. You want handrails that don't get in your way, but are close enough to grasp if you need them. Cushioning will help to provide more comfort as well. Motor location can be important because you don't want the motor to get in your way either.

Easy to use controls are also extremely important of course, so you can easily adjust during a workout and you can get started with a session quickly. Useful programs and presets are important so you can enjoy a variety of workouts. You also want convenient displays so you can keep track of your progress and your vitals.

Inclination levels should be fully adjustable, and you want a minimum incline that's flat so you aren't always working against a hill.

This covers all of the basic features and functions that you will be considering when you are ready to purchase a new treadmill for the home. Follow this guide and you'll be good to go with your fantastic new treadmill and fitness program.