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If you want to be able to walk or run regardless of the weather you might be in the market for a treadmill. But there are so many options out there it can be hard to know which treadmill is best for you. Ideally, when buying a new treadmill you should research and evaluate what's available before you make a purchase.

It's a good idea to first work out what your major requirements are so you can assess how well the available features meet these needs. Consider the following:

• Operation - Powered or manual; manual is less expensive but powered treadmills offer more features and convenience in adjustments.
• Convenience - Foldable, wheels, self locking storage latch, self unfolding; more convenience equals more price.
• Safety - Weight limit, child lock, hand rails, automatic stop; if you have children or exercise alone safety features can be a key factor.
• Frame - Steel, plastic, or aircraft-quality aluminium over wood.

Once you've found some treadmills that meet your needs your next step is to compare them so you can narrow down your choices. If you are an occasional exerciser who only walks on your treadmill once or twice a week, then a manual budget treadmill with a plastic fame may suffice. If you walk more frequently you will want to consider better constructed machines with frames made from steel or aircraft quality aluminum. Of course there are many other issues to consider and you will need to examine these in turn to arrive at the best treadmill for your purposes.

Now that you're ready to buy you have a number of choices of where to buy your treadmill from. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and your individual taste and previous buying experience will have an impact. Staff at specialized fitness equipment and sports stores may offer the most knowledgeable advice, but prices on the internet are often better. It can be helpful to consult experienced salespeople if you are still unsure about whether to get a treadmill with internet download capacity or a programmable exercise routine option. This is one of the final issues to think about before handing over your hard-earned cash but don't forget to ask about other things such as warranties and spare parts. You also need to be wary of any buying traps.

Tip: It's always a good idea to actually try out the treadmill you are thinking of buying. Wear comfortable clothes and do a shorter version of the workout you're planning to do. If you walk, walk. If you will run, run. Is the belt smooth? Does it squeak? Are the handles at a comfortable level? Is the console easy to use as you do your workout? Use the answers to these questions to assess how well the treadmill compares to others on your shortlist.

For more information and videos on how to buy the right Treadmill go to Buyz123.com: Treadmill Buying Guide

Richard Block is the webmaster for Buyz123.com and has written and edited hundreds of their buying guides.

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