Manual Treadmill vs. Motorized Treadmill

There are two types of treadmills: manual and motorized. Both of these treadmills are good for a workout. Choosing a treadmill can be a challanging and time consuming process. First, you need to decide whether you need manual or motorized treadmill.

They both have their pros and cons, and there is no best fitness machine for everyones needs or training intensity. Everyone is different (e.g. their wieght goal, intesity, pace and needs), so weigh the pros and cons of each treadmill based on your training needs, to figure out what type of machine you need.

Manual treadmills

They are most suited for those who don’t require multiple programmed workouts of motorized treadmills. If your training is a simple exercise such as running or walking, you don’t mind using your legs to move the belt, and you don’t have to lose a great amount of weight, then a manual treadmill is a good option for you. They are very cheap, compared to an electronic treadmill.

With a manual treadmill, you provide the power; as you walk or run, your feet will push the tread surface back over a smooth surface or a series of rollers. The treadmill speeds up and slows down, according to your effort. Unfortunately, these machines have drawbacks.

The disadvantage of using a manual treadmill is the strain it will put on your knees and hip joints. Using them might cause you all sorts of joint problems in the long run, since you have to use your legs to move the belts.

They are often difficult to get moving, without using an extreme incline, and once moving, you can't change the incline. The low price also often means less sturdy construction.

Manual treadmills also have the disadvantage of being slower and more difficult to operate, because the user powers the belt. If the exerciser begins to tire and slows down, the belt slows down too.

Motorized Treadmills

On the other hand, with a motorized treadmill, you select the speed you want and it is all motorized. You don’t need to push the belt; actually you need to keep up with the belt as it continues at the same speed, forcing the exerciser to keep going at that speed.

Motorized treadmills are very costly, when compared to manual treadmills. Few high quality, electronic treadmills retail for under $1000. Tthere are motorized treadmills less than thousand, but it’s not likely to perform the way you would want. Most of the inexpensive treadmills are better suited for walking than for running.

An electronic treadmill will give you a constant, steady speed through the workout, more than a manual treadmill. Manual treadmills have no speed or timing settings that will hep you burn calories, since your speed is determined by how fast or slow you work the belt; whereas an electronic treadmill does and is able to give you a steady workout.

Final Word

Both manual and electronic treadmills have pros and cons. However, a manual treadmill is not an ideal fitness machine unless you are fit to push the belt so you can exercise. If you’re after a sturdy and continuous workout, a motorized treadmill is recommended, for maximum calorie burning and exercise convenience.