Need treadmill recommendations
 

I'm looking to spend a maximum of $500 on a treadmill. I want it to be able to incline, and have some cushioning (I have some joint problems). I also don't want to have it crap out after a year :) Any recommendations?

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Thats for doing this thread. I am on the lookout for a treadmill too. Really have no idea what I want. Do I want one with a motor or one that my feet makes move lol? I just have no idea. Hubby uses his bow flex but I am not allowed to use it unless he is there. I hurt myself onetime not setting it right somehow.

There is actually an exercise equipment area here:
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=213

There are a few threads about treadmills

I looked at consumer reports but unfortunately, the lowest price recommendation that they had was still above $1000.

Here is some info they have on choosing though...

HOW TO CHOOSE

First decide whether you want to devote the money and space to a big exercise machine. A living-room workout is the height of convenience, but of course, you can get fit exercising outdoors or at a gym. If you decide to buy a treadmill, consider these tips:

Try it out first. Every model is a little different, so you shouldn't buy one before using it in the store.

Decide which features you'll use. Some, such as exercise programs, can make a workout more varied and less boring, which may get you on the machine more often. But don't pay for frills you don't care about.

Consider your space. Nonfolding treadmills take up as much floor space as a couch. If your workout room does double duty, a folding treadmill can save you about 6 square feet.

Consider your workout intensity. If you'll usually walk rather than run, any of the tested models will suffice. Decide based on your budget and the features you want. If you run, construction quality is paramount.

I've looked into treadmills before and from everything I've read, most of the ones under 1000 break pretty easily, especially if you're running. I've heard the Image ones are good for just walking, but I remember also reading some other bad reviews on those as well.

If $500 isn't enough to buy a decent treadmill, you might want to think about buying one on Craigslist or from a yard sale. Do research, of course, but many, many, many people buy exercise equipment they never use and will sell practically new machines for far less than retail.

Ok... I'm sorry I can't really suggest what treadmill you should use but definately do the necessary research to find a good one... Don't cheap out when it comes to your safety..

<--linkosuction-->

All I plan on doing is walking and jogging (at a pretty slow pace). I have lots of room, so I don't necessarily need a fold-up model. :)

Here is an interesting article from about.com as well but again even though it is their budget recommendations, they are still over $1000.

http://walking.about.com/od/treadmil...millbudget.htm

It might give you a good starting point. Sometimes treadmills come in different tiers for the same treadmill so even though the best budget one may be over $1000, you might be able to find a sister one for less than that.

That is why I want to get one at a yard sale or out of the paper that someone has gotten and then didnt use. I am not rich, 1000 dollars. Heck that is twice what I paid for my first car lol.

I found a few on craigslist before I bought mine brand new. Look up ratings for each model that you find on craigslist and that would be your best bet for $500. The ones at Sears and stores like that are CRAP and will bust on you.

You can try Play It Again Sports too. They sell "used" exercise equipment. It is usually stuff that people bought new and never used. Or didn't use much. Then, they take it there and sell it to them or consign it and then PLay it Again Sports resells it. I have seen some really nice stuff at mine and they seem reasonable. I think they even have a 30 day warranty, too, which you won't get on Craig's list or from a yard sale.

Good luck.

And, like everyone said, research, research, research!

Kathy