Searching for the best treadmill?

If you're buying a treadmill, chances are you've done lots of research already. You most likely know exactly what makes up a high quality machine and have an idea of which features you want in your unit.

However, even when they know what to look for, many people get taken in by slick treadmill "deals" that are not really deals at all - and end up costing them dearly over time.

To keep this from happening to you, here are 3 buying tips to help you find the treadmill that's best for you:

Buying Tip #1 - Not All Brands Are the Same

One buyer emailed me recently and asked about buying a treadmill. He'd narrowed it down to 3 options:

Brand A: 2.5 HP motor $999

Brand B: 1.75 HP motor $899

Brand C: 2.0 HP motor $1099

He wanted to know which one was best.He clearly was thinking about Brand A.

This seems like the natural option - get the most for the least money.

But my answer wasn't what he expected to hear. I would go with Brand C.

Here's why:

It's true that Brand A looks great on paper.

But Brand C has a reputation for making high quality treadmills with long warranties and commercial parts. Brand C offers lifetime motor warranties and they rate well with both users and experts.

Brand A on the other hand doesn't have a great reputation with buyers, has never won any expert awards and offers a 90-day motor warranty. What does that tell you about the quality of construction?

When looking at treadmills, try to look at the whole context - including the brand. Not all brands are created equal. Look for a brand that has a good reputation with good reviews from both experts and buyers.

Buying Tips #2 - Don't Always Trust the Salesperson

Not to put down any salespeople. But everyone makes mistakes - and sometimes you're the one left paying for it.

Here's an example.

Another lady emailed me asking about buying a treadmill. She was leaning towards one model specifically. She'd been informed by the salesperson that it carried a lifetime motor warranty. But as soon as she told me the treadmill model name, I knew there had to be a misunderstanding somewhere. Because this particular brand never gives lifetime motor warranties - ever.

I asked her to recheck with the store selling the treadmill. She did and it happened that the treadmill salesperson was mistaken. She was only covered for a year on the motor. That mistake could have cost her dearly.

So make sure to do your research, ask for the specs in writing and don't always trust what the salesperson says - especially if it sounds too good to be true.

Buying Tip #3 Compare the True Price of Treadmills

Many people compare by price when buying a treadmill. And that's understandable. But sometimes prices can mislead you.

As an example, let's say you're comparing 2 treadmills - both priced at $999. They have many of the same features. But option #1 comes with Free Shipping. Option #2 charges $150 for shipping. And Option #2 gives you extra warranty coverage - for a $80 charge. So really option #1 is the cheaper treadmill. All else being equal, it's the best treadmill buy.

So when shopping for a treadmill, consider the extra expenses like shipping, added warranty charges or even extra workout programs when comparing treadmill prices. This gives you you a much better idea of the best treadmill for your money.

So to summarize those are 3 important buying tips when choosing a treadmill. Keep them in mind and you're well on your way to a treadmill you'll use for years to come.