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Buying a Treadmill
Don't Get Burned, Buy Smart
If
you are considering buying
a treadmill you need to take into consideration a number of
factors that will determine the quality of the machine. You want to
avoid buying a cheap treadmill because they are not built for endurance
and will probably breakdown after minimum use. Treadmills under $800
dollars are constructed with inferior components, it's a matter of
plain economics. You get what you pay for. You get a machine that will
not provide the best exercise experience.
So
what do you look for when buying a treadmill, and should you buy your
treadmill from a dealer or on the Internet?
Buying
a Treadmill from a Retail Store
The
obvious advantage when buying a treadmill from either a large retail
store or fitness equipment specialty shop is that you to try it out.
You can try out all of the features, compare the belts and their
impact, and get a feel for what works for you. But this comes with a
cost. You are paying for two costly expenses. First, you have to pay
for the retail overhead costs. Most retail fitness equipment stores are
in prime locations. This cost of the building adds significantly to the
price of the treadmill.
Second,
when buying a treadmill you are paying for the commission to the
salesperson. And since he is on commission you can't always be certain
he is going to provide you with objective information. Together the retail
costs and the salesperson's commissions can add up to 10% - 15% to the
cost of your treadmill. If you feel a need to try it out then
you just need to factor in that cost.
Buying
a Treadmill Online
When
buying a treadmill online you can save considerable money, but you have
to be an educated buyer. But the reality is treadmills are like
computers. They are composed of many of the same features and
components. If you know what you are looking for in a treadmill, and
you are familiar with the features you want, then you can easily shop
and compare online. In the process you avoid having to travel all over
town comparing prices and features. The whole process can be done at
your desk.
These
are considerations when buying a treadmill online:
- Check to makes sure the treadmill is a name brand,
backed buy independent ratings and reviews. Also, check for customer
testimonials, if available.
- Make sure when buying a treadmill, it is built with
quality components. Like computers, treadmill manufacturers built using
similar parts. Make sure that the parts are reputable and that the
overall construction meets or exceeds the standards required for your
needs.
- A warranty says a lot about the quality of
a treadmill. Companies are not going to offer an exceptional
warranty if the machine tends to breakdown in a short period of time.
Warranties are a consistent factor in the quality of a treadmill. If
the warranty is exceptional then it makes sense that the treadmill is
built to last. Make sure you buy treadmill that comes with a reasonable
in-home repair warranty. A one year repair warranty is a good
indication. If you plan to buy a budget treadmill consider an extended
warranty.
- Make sure your treadmill is backed by exceptional
customer service. Treadmills are complicated pieces of machinery. They
do break. Whether if you buy online or at a retail store, make sure the
company has an excellent customer service record. Online company
reviews can be found at Shopping.com and BizRate.com.
When buying a treadmill do not get caught up by the
salesperson. Do your research. Compare prices, features and warranties.
Also check out the treadmill
reviews and ratings. That will give you a good indication on
what to buy whether online or off.
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