Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will not be complete without regular physical activity. They can be provided in various ways, one of which is the acquisition of a treadmill. The dimensions of the canvas of this simulator are one of the key points in choosing the right model. With the help of the sports device in question, it is possible to maintain in the form of muscles, the heart muscle, and get rid of excess weight. Advantages include the simulator’s independence from weather and seasonal conditions. Workouts at home are adjusted to the work schedule, and you do not need to spend time on the road and subscriptions to the gym.
general information
Treadmills, the sizes of which we will consider below, are now present in many training sections and residential buildings. Devices appeared relatively recently, but quickly gained popularity. There are several varieties in this segment. The origin of the simulator is also interesting. It turns out that initially it was not intended for sports at all.
The prototype treadmills may well include devices for punishment used in prisons. The prototypes of exercise bikes and “steppers” were used to use the physical labor of prisoners, aimed at solving various everyday needs. An interesting fact - at the Ford production facilities a prototype treadmill was used to run conveyors, but pack animals worked there.
Features
It is not necessary to unambiguously classify treadmills, the sizes of which vary in a rather wide range, to the penitentiary system or industrialization. Already in the 19th century, many doctors and scientists noted the positive effect of motor activity on the body, developing analogues of modern simulators.
The popularity of devices began to grow rapidly in the second half of the last century. Kenneth Cooper (who developed the famous test under his own name) published a printed work in 1968 on the benefits of aerobic type loads. Such information has become one of the main impetus for the popularization of treadmills and bicycle simulators. At that time, two manufacturers were leading in the corresponding market: the Finnish company Tunturi and the American company AerobicsInc. These modifications differed noticeably from modern versions; they were mainly of a mechanical configuration.
Electric models
The specified variety belongs to the most popular versions; it is operated in homes and fitness rooms. The device operates from an electric motor, it is possible to adjust the angle of inclination of the working canvas and speed. Electronic modifications require appropriate care and maintenance.
Conventionally specified units are divided into three types:
- Economy class - designed primarily for home use, equipped with simple electronics and a low-power motor. 380-400 millimeters - the size of the running belt. Treadmills of this type have a speed of 1.5-15 km / h. Engine power - not more than 1.5 horsepower, manual control.
- Amateur versions are more expensive at a price with a rather powerful “engine”. The dimensions of the canvas are 400–450 mm, the speed parameter is 2–16 km / h, the type of motor is a commutator engine with a capacity of up to two liters. from. Additional features - electronic control, including adjustment of the working part, registration of the main parameters of the body, the possibility of making your own training programs.
- Professional (Hi-End) models - the best option with advanced functionality, designed primarily for gyms. Speed - 1–18 km / h, dimensions - 450–500 mm, engine power - up to three liters. from. Such simulators have increased strength, a recorder of all necessary parameters and electronic control.
Characteristics and dimensions of the treadmill for the home mechanical configuration
The first modifications belonged to just such a variety. In the modern sports industry, such models are gradually going out of fashion. Their popularity rests on affordability, most often they are operated in homes.
The main difference from the electric versions is the principle of action (the canvas is put into operation by the effort of the athlete himself). The more actively a person moves, the faster the treadmill “rides”. The dimensions of the simulator are identical to the modifications discussed above.
Features:
- acceptable price;
- simplicity of construction;
- the ability to take into account the main parameters;
- depreciation elements are absent;
- smooth running is not configured.
What is remarkable about mechanical versions?
On such simulators it is contraindicated to engage in people with varicose veins or joint diseases due to the lack of depreciation. Be that as it may, it is the mechanical variation that most accurately copies the run, given that the person himself makes an effort.
However, this modification moves jerkily, which gives an increased load on the joints. Partially compensate for this drawback is available through the use of special athletics shoes. It is quite possible to carry out controlled exercises, since most of the modifications are equipped with sensors for heart rate, distance traveled and speed. The overall dimensions of this type of treadmill are quite suitable for home use.
Magnetic variations
These models are almost an exact copy of the above varieties. The only difference is the presence in the design of special magnets responsible for moving and stopping the working part. This configuration provides a smooth ride, which improves the comfort of operation of the device. The simulators do not require a connection to a power source, which allows it to be operated in suburban areas, in garages, where there is no supply of a centralized energy network. The price of the devices is comparable to mechanical analogues, the functionality is also similar, a small computer is included in the equipment.
Folding trainers
These varieties can be either mechanically or electrically driven. The main advantage of the units is the presence of a folding running belt, transforming upwards, after which it can be easily stored in a closet or on the balcony. The dimensions of the treadmill simulator in this design are identical to standard modifications, each version is completed with instructions with recommendations for use, which allows you to bring it into working condition in minutes.
Such a device is convenient to use, it is equipped with an on-board computer and a system for recording heart rate, calories burned and other important characteristics. The transformer will be an ideal find for small rooms, it can be used in an office or a country house, tidying up if necessary in a storage place.
School treadmills
The size of such simulators is much smaller than adult versions. They have a running track and a general configuration designed for children's steps and endurance. Most devices can be used by babies from two years.
Among the features should be noted such points:
- bright colors that attract the attention of the child, in harmony with the interior of the children's room and attracting the attention of young users;
- compact dimensions that do not take up much space in small rooms;
- equipping with a low-power motor and an elementary computer;
- the most simple management;
- the presence of protective elements in the form of additional soft pads and rubberized handles.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a simulator, a number of factors should be considered:
- motor power, which affects the performance of the unit, varies from 0.6 to 3.0 kW;
- dimensions of the running belt, responsible for the comfort of use;
- stability determining the safety of using the device (this parameter is especially important if children are engaged in it);
- control panel, on the monitor of which the parameters of the distance traveled, speed, calorie consumption, heart rate are displayed;
- additional functions in the form of connecting a music player, backlight, a number of built-in training programs;
- the ability to adjust the angle and noise;
- transportation and storage conditions of the device.
Total
Large treadmills are relevant only in gyms, homes of professional athletes or users with high weight and high growth. The optimal dimensions for home fitness equipment of this type are considered to be 400/1200 mm models. Such canvases are convenient for use by people up to 1.8 meters tall, regardless of complexion. Larger versions are mounted on specialized versions with a hardened case and high-power engines.