Electric or mechanical treadmill - which is better?
Electric treadmill vs mechanical treadmill - is it a battle of the giants or a clear-cut decision? First of all, it's important that you know the differences between the two devices, because after all, it's all about your legs.
Mechanical treadmills at a glance
The mechanical treadmill only works when you pedal. You hold on to the handles with sheer force and set the belt under your feet in motion. This has positive and negative effects. The positive side is safety, as accidents are almost impossible. Your leg muscles also get a really intensive workout, as you have to push the band with sheer muscle power. The training effect is therefore quite intense, but this very strenuous training cannot be directly compared to running on a free track, simply because you cannot use your arms. On the other hand, the lack of a motor on a mechanical treadmill is of course a cost saving. If you only use a treadmill occasionally, a mechanical treadmill is often the more cost-effective choice.
Electric treadmills as a motorized version
Electric treadmills have been on the rise for years and if you only go to the gym, you probably don't know any other treadmills. The motor keeps the treadmill in constant motion so that the track is constantly moving under your feet. This allows you to move in a way that is biomechanically much more similar to running in the park or a marathon. If you want to prepare for a run or stay in training during the winter season, then an electric treadmill is the better choice. However, you will lack the air resistance, which is why you should set a slight incline to get that real running feeling. However, the running motor also has disadvantages. If you don't activate the emergency stop, you may actually be "catapulted" off the treadmill. This can be dangerous for untrained runners, especially at higher speeds. In addition, the motor is an additional source of noise and, as you are free running, you will bounce off the treadmill with every step.
Which treadmill is best for you?
If your budget is not severely restricted, you should give preference to electric treadmills. The movement is more similar to jogging, the programs keep you motivated and you can simply train more freely and naturally. Humans are made for running and a treadmill with a motor simply reflects this better.
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Editorial team fitnessmarkt.de (EA)
Image credit: #189925136 seventyfour AdobeStock.jpg
Published on: 25 January 2018