So you need a new treadmill but you don't want the shopping headache. These free tips on choosing a treadmill will help.

1. Arm yourself with knowledge. Know what you want. Ask yourself how you are going to use the treadmill. Are you a runner? Do you walk? How many days a week are you going to use it? Do you need a low profile hood so you can see your TV.? You may also want to consider your space and whether or not you want a folding treadmill. Unless you have a designated gym/room. I would highly recommend a good quality folding treadmill with good reviews.

2. Heart rate monitors and chest straps are a great idea. You need to know what your target heart rate is, depending upon what your goals are. Maybe it is to lose weight fast, maybe cardio, or maybe both. Some machines come with a heart rate strap that will display your heart rate right on the LCD display. This is a really great and beneficial feature. The heart rate handles you hold on to have some drawbacks, like having to stop walking or running to take your heart rate. With a chest strap you can keep running/walking.

3. User friendly display and buttons. The basic button functions are incline and speed. Most all treadmills have the basic buttons. However some treadmills are more user friendly than others. For instance one brand puts incline/speed buttons right on the handles. I love this function because it is so convenient to adjust while you are exercising. Also check out the low profile designs.

4. Look for a strong motor and quiet deck. Whether you run or walk consider a strong (2.5 to 3.0 horsepower) motor. Especially if you workout more than three times a week. It is also a plus if the treadmill has a good quality quiet deck. You will appreciate this especially if you workout while watching TV or while others are asleep.

These key elements will take a lot of the headache out of shopping for a treadmill. Choose a quality better buy treadmill with a good warranty and you will reap the rewards.