Manual treadmills are designed to be powered solely by the effort of the user. Like other, electric treadmills, there is a belt set on a track that must be moved in order for the user to be able to keep in motion. Unlike electric treadmills though, manual models can be a bit more difficult for some to handle at first. Both are built with similar design layouts, and both can offer at least basic monitoring feedback. When it comes to choosing the right one for you, the following pointers should be kept in mind.
1. Pricing
Manual treadmills tend to cost a lot less than their electrical counterparts. On average, for a quality model, the pricing tends to range between $100 and $300. Typically though, anything above the upper limit may be considered overpriced for something that lacks sophisticated mechanisms or complex features.
2. Size
Because manual treadmills lack in electrical components, most models tend to be a lot more streamlined. Some are even designed to be folded up and stored between uses. If you are limited on space but still desire the usefulness of being able to complete walking exercises indoors, then a manual model may be preferable to a bulkier and heavier electrical version.
3. Durability
One issue that customers often find with manual treadmills is the fact that they are often not as sturdy in design as electrical models. For those weighing 300+ pounds it may be difficult to find an affordable manual model that meets the durability needs. Even many electrical models tend to be fairly expensive when it comes to supporting higher weight limits.
4. Physical Ability
Aside from finding a manual treadmill that meets physical durability requirements, it is also important to keep in mind the added effort it takes to operate a manual treadmill. With electrical models, you simple press a button, the tread moves and you walk. With manual treadmills you need to be able to set a steady stride with adequate force to keep the tread in motion. For people who have issues with the knees, or joints in general, it may be a bit more effort than desired for a workout. However, for those who enjoy a bit more of a challenge in their walking/jogging routine, there are many manual treadmills that offer a level of added difficulty that is enjoyable.
5. Extra Features Desired
Some of the best manual treadmills available today only come with basic monitoring features. Due to their simplistic design, which is meant to be better for smaller spaces and lower in price than electrical versions, the biggest sacrifice, aside from durability, is the amount of possible features. For many review lists that looked at what the product offers, and what users have remarked about them, one of the top ranked manual treadmills is the CardioStride 3.0 from Weslo. It is available around $100 and features a basic battery powered monitor that tracks speed, distance, and calories burned which is the most that can be expected from a manual treadmill.
