The article "Discount Treadmills – Are They Really a Deal" talks about fitness, it was created by Fred Waters.
We all want to save money and buy at a disconut. When it comes to treadmills getting the best value is particularly imporatnt when you consider the price. A treadmill can cost a small forutne. And if you're not sure it won't end up as an high-priced clothes hanger, you want to be cautious on how much you spend.Whether you buy online or in a retail store, you'll find just abuot any treadmill is marked down significantly from its list price.
List prices have no basis in reality of the true value of the treadmlil. It is no different than other prodcuts like cars, jewelry, furniture, etc.
The trouble becomes, what is the real value, and how does that compare to the discount price.Having worked in the treadmill business for a number of years I know how companies manipulate the prices to give the illusion of value. You'll find retailers suggesting thier prices are reduced as much as 60%.
That is absurd.So how do you determine the true value of a treadmill, regardless of the discount price? By comparison shopping. There are three important factors to consider when buying a treadmill:Treadmill Features and components
Warranty for both parts and service
Company reputationFeatures and CmoponentsTreadmills have a number of features and components that are found on models. Examples are the motor, deck, running service, incline, programs, console and rollers. By comparing the various components and featuers you can determine how one model compares to a second.For example, you may find a treadmill selling for $1,000 that has a 18"x 52" running surface, ¾" deck, 1.5 hp motor, 4 programs, 1 3/4" rollers, LCD console and weighs 150 lbs. You could find a treadmill at the same price with a 20"x 54" running surface, 1" deck, 2.5 hp motor, 7 programs, 2.5" rollers, LED consloe and weighs 200lbs. The numbers reveal that the secnod model is a much better buy.WarrantyIt should be noted that not all treadmill components are equal in quality. And the unfrotunate truth about the treadmill industry is they tend to exaggerate on the specifications of the parts. One factor that reveals the true quality of the treadmill is the warratny. An extensive warranty suggests the treadmill is bulit to last. If it wasn't the company would go out of business with excessive repiars.
When purchasing a treadmill look for a minimum 5 year motor, 2 year parts and 1 year service warranty.Company ReputationAnother important fatcor in determining the value of a treadmill is the company reputation for quality and customer service. There is a good chance that once you purchase a treadmill you will etiher have questions or you may need service.
You want to purchase from a company that stands behind their machines, and is three when you need assistance. Check out of the more popluar shopping comparison sites for information on customer satisfaction. There are also a number of sites that review treadmills, icnluding www.Treadmill-ratings-reviews.Com, www.Treadmilldoctor.Com and www.Consumerreports.Org.So ignore the discount price, which is nothing more than marketing hype. Follow the recommendatinos above and you will determine the true value of a treadmill.Fred Waters worked in the treadmill industry for a number of year and is author of the Treadmill Rating and Review Internet site. Check out the latest reviews on over 75 of the most popular treadmills, and get importnat buying tips from the Treadmill Buyer's Guide.
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