The home treadmill is one of the most popular pieces of fitness equipment as it can be used by anyone of virtually any fitness level. Depending on your stamina, you can jog, run or just walk. Staying motivated is a stumbling block for many of us, but the beauty of a home treadmill is that you can vary your exercises simply by adjusting the speed. And you can put a lot of additional variety into your workout routine with the built-in programs and the incline adjustment. Another advantage is being able to work out indoors any time of the day. No more excuses not to do something about your health when the weather is inclement.

Are you convinced that the home treadmill is the best investment you can make in your health? Great, but don't rush out and buy the first good looking model you see. A wrong purchase may not only be hard on your wallet, it can be hard on your body as well. You need to do some research into the various treadmill brands and the history and reputation of the manufacturer. Then decide on a price range you are comfortable with and narrow your search down to the model that has the features you need. A good place to compare brands and models are independent treadmill review sites that give unbiased opinions. Reviews that include comments from trainers, fitness pros and consumers who have purchased the particular machine for home use are your best bet. Ask Yourself These Questions Before Buying a Home Treadmill

How much can I afford to spend? (Treadmills selling for less than $1000 are probably not a good investment)

Which features do I need? (Foldable/non-foldable, workout programs, manual/power incline adjustment etc.)

Is the treadmill built with quality components? (Compare the frame, belt, motor, electronics etc.)

What exactly is covered by the warranty? (Quality brands come with 10-year, 30-year and Lifetime warranties)

Make a list of who will be using the treadmill and what types of workouts the users are interested in. If you only weigh 120 lbs and want to do some light running you won't need a home treadmill that supports a 400 lbs user weight. On the other hand, your needs will be different if you weigh 275 lbs and want to do some heavy running at top speed or you want to create a varied workout that includes power incline adjustments. Ask yourself if you really need a treadmill with 10 different workout programs. Do you prefer a chest strap heart rate monitor or a pulse-grip sensor built into the handlebars?

Look at the Treadmill Parts

Look for treadmill review sites with comparison charts so you can compare these key features at a glance:

The Motor - Look for a horsepower output of at least 2.5 hp continuous duty.

Treadbelt - Look for a running surface at least 20" wide and 54" in length. Narrow and short running surfaces will not give you an optimal workout.

Suspension System - Look for a good suspension system to reduce harmful impact to your joints. You don't want to run on a deck that feels like concrete.

Weight - Safety and stability suffer when you run on a light-weight treadmill. Look for a heavy model that won't rock or sway when in use.

Console - Do you want to keep track of your speed, distance, calories burned, time and heart rate simultaneously? Does the treadmill have an emergency shut-off? Does it come with a key or require password activation to prevent unauthorized use?

Workout Programs - There are interval speed and incline programs, heart rate control programs, weight loss programs and programs that target either time, distance or calories burned. The more choices you have the more you will stay motivated.

Heart Rate Monitor - Look for home treadmills that come with a wireless chest strap heart rate monitor for the ultimate in convenience.

Warranty - Manufacturers who stand behind their products offer more than a 90-day warranty. Look for 1, 10, 30-year and even lifetime warranties on the frame and/or parts and at least 1 year coverage on labor.

These guidelines will make you a savvier consumer when you're out shopping for a treadmill. Once you have done your homework you can save additional money by buying online at sites that sell home treadmills factory direct to the consumer. Make sure you get what you need for your workouts and nothing more.