Choosing a treadmill is a big decision. Whether you’re just getting into running as a hobby and you want to engage in it no matter what the weather is doing outside or you’ve decided to train for a 5k, a half marathon, or a full marathon and don’t want to miss out on important training days no matter what, it’s important that you choose the right treadmill for you. Make sure that you’re getting a great treadmill that will allow you to improve your running speed while keeping up your overall health and protecting your joints. Here are four features found on the best treadmills for running:

Feature #1: The Running Surface

The running surface is one of the most important parts of the treadmill. You want a large, broad running surface that will allow you to run freely, without having to correct your stride due to the construction of the treadmill. An orthopedic treadmill belt like the one offered by the TRUE Fitness Performance 300 and many of our other treadmill options, for example, will help cushion your joints, protecting your knees and ankles as you’re running. This can be a hugely important step, especially if you’re running long distances as you train for a race. Repeated impact on your joints can cause significant pain and other problems over time, leaving you struggling to keep up. With an orthopedic belt (60″L x 21″W) that offers shock absorption, you can keep running longer, pushing yourself to new heights without putting your body in danger.

Feature #2: Heart Rate Monitoring

If you’re running for cardio training, you want to be sure that you’re hitting the right heart rate. More importantly, you want to make sure that you’re not going too hard or too fast, putting too much strain on your body. On the other hand, you don’t want to run too slowly, never kicking your body into that important cardio zone where you’ll burn calories and see significant gains.  The best treadmills for running build cardio endurance by helping users maintain their ideal pace and heart rate. TRUE Fitness treadmills, like the True Fitness Performance 800, offer some of the most advance heart rate monitoring features on the market. Each TRUE treadmill includes a patented feature called “Heart Rate Control” (HRC) operates just like cruise control in your car.  You set your target heart rate and the treadmill automatically adjusts the speed and incline to keep you within 2 beats of your target. This is a great way to help increase your overall endurance, helping you make those long distances as you train for a half or full marathon.

Feature #3: Terrain Training Options

When you’re training for a big race, you want to be sure that your treadmill has all the right features–including incline/decline options that will make you feel like you’re running on real terrain.  It’s a big switch from a treadmill that stays at a steady, flat incline to running out on real trails–and the right treadmill, like the TRUE Fitness Excel 900, will allow you to make those adjustments accordingly. With a 4 Horse Power Quiet-Drive Motor,  the Excel 900 offers solid and unobtrusive performance.  And offers versatile workout options with a 15% incline to 3% decline running range.

Feature #4: The Extras You Want

There are a lot of little features that can quickly add up to a more comfortable running experience, especially if you’re stuck inside throughout Colorado’s harsh winters. Consider whether or not you want a Bluetooth console or touchscreen to help make your indoor run more comfortable. Do you need a quiet motor that will create a smooth, unobtrusive running experience that won’t bother anyone else? Think about how these features will impact your ability to use your treadmill long-term.

There are plenty of treadmill options out there, and now is the time to buy!  It doesn’t matter if you’re prepping for a race or you just want to feel fitter.  Check out our extensive collection the best treadmills for running today.  Want to learn more about us or still have questions about selecting the perfect treadmill?  Contact us with any questions: we’re here to help!  And feel free to call us at 303-399-1000 to learn more about how the TRUE Fitness line can help you reach your goals.