Question:
I'm considering the purchase of a treadmill...

I only saw a couple of posts to a previous question about treadmill recommendations, so I thought I'd give it a try. I went to Sears today and saw a large variety of treadmills. I'd appreciate hearing anyone's feedback...what are good brands...what brands to avoid...any tidbits of info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone!    — Michele A. (posted on August 19, 2000)

August 19, 2000
Just something to think about...I'm 5 months postop and have been walking 4 or 5 times a week for about 30-45 minutes. Recently I've started developing pain in my hip joints when I walk or even stand for more than a few minutes. I suspect it's the beginning of osteoarthritis from being so large (started at 394, now weigh 311) and all the walking I've been doing. I too had thought about getting a treadmill but now I'm thinking maybe an exercise bike would be better for me....not as much stress on my joints. I don't know if other people have had this problem or if I just have a tendency because of family history (mom has osteoarthritis in her hip...she has always been thin).
   — Kellie L.

August 20, 2000
I have a treadmill from years ago and am looking for a new one only because this one doesn't go fast enough for my daughter who runs inside when it is raining. My advice, for what it is worth:), is to find one with the options you want. For example: you may want one with an auto incline for after you have walked for a while and need a more challenging workout- however, I didn't choose to spend extra on that option. The newer ones have drink holders (I can't wait for that!) which is good so you can get in some of that 64 oz. of water while you are on there. I have a Weslo Cadence, and paid about $300 for it quite a few years ago. I have been very happy with it! Also, as far as joint pain goes, you may have an easier time with a treadmill as opposed to walking outside simply because the treadmill is not as hard a surface (more give to it) as asphalt or concrete. I can actually jog on mine, but get sore knees if I run on a bike path. Good Luck!
   — M B.

June 13, 2001
While you are shopping, check them all out and decide what options you want and then go to the garage sales. People always have used exercise equipment for sale and most always it is about 1/4 the original cost. Save your self some big bucks. Most of this equipment is almost new; people buy it and then don't use it. Good intentions, you know. (I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE)
   — [Anonymous]

June 13, 2001
I have a ProForm SpaceSaver that I love. Wide belt, incline, target heart rate monitor, time/distance/speed monitor. You can actually connect it to the Internet at www.ifit.com and have a personal trainer take control of your workout (not there yet!). It's really cool, and it cost me $599 on sale at Sears. Worth every dime. I also bought the ProForm stationary bike about 6 months later.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 14, 2001
I LOVE my treadmill. I have a Healthrider Softstride. It is excellent. I tested a lot of them before I purchased mine. It has a cushioned platform that prevents excess stress on your joint. It has the much sought after drink holder (LOL). It uses a computer to plan your walking course. it has the incline option and my husband runs on it. Some platforms are just too short. This has a long one that allows my husband (6"2") to use it. You can set your speed and it will tell you how far and how long you have walked. Ours is positioned in front of the TV and it gets lots of use. I paid about $1000 for it about 3 years ago. shelley
   — Shelley.