Buying a
Treadmill -
Don't Get Burned, Buy Smart
If you are
considering
buying a treadmill you need to take into consideration a number of factors
that will determine the quality of the machine. You want to avoid buying a
cheap treadmill because they are not built for endurance and will probably
breakdown after minimum use. Treadmills under $800 dollars are constructed
with inferior components, it's a matter of plain economics. You get what you
pay for. You get a machine that will not provide the best exercise experience.
So
what do you look for when buying a treadmill, and should you buy your treadmill
from a dealer or on the Internet?
Buying a Treadmill from a Retail Store
The
obvious advantage when buying a treadmill from either a large retail store or
fitness equipment specialty shop is that you to try it out. You can try out all
of the features, compare the belts and their impact, and get a feel for what
works for you. But this comes with a cost. You are paying for two costly
expenses. First, you have to pay for the retail overhead costs. Most retail
fitness equipment stores are in prime locations. This cost of the building adds
significantly to the price of the treadmill.
Second, when buying a treadmill you are paying for the commission to the
salesperson. And since he is on commission you can't always be certain he is
going to provide you with objective information. Together the retail costs
and the salesperson's commissions can add up to 10% - 15% to the cost of your
treadmill. If you feel a need to try it out then you just need to factor in
that cost.
Buying a Treadmill Online
When
buying a treadmill online you can save considerable money, but you have to be an
educated buyer. But the reality is treadmills are like computers. They are
composed of many of the same features and components. If you know what you are
looking for in a treadmill, and you are familiar with the features you want,
then you can easily shop and compare online. In the process you avoid having to
travel all over town comparing prices and features. The whole process can be
done at your desk.
These are considerations when buying a treadmill online:
-
Check to makes
sure the treadmill is a name brand, backed buy independent ratings and
reviews. Also, check for customer testimonials, if available.
-
Make sure when
buying a treadmill, it is built with quality components. Like computers,
treadmill manufacturers built using similar parts. Make sure that the parts
are reputable and that the overall construction meets or exceeds the
standards required for your needs.
-
A warranty
says a lot about the quality of a treadmill. Companies are not going to
offer an exceptional warranty if the machine tends to breakdown in a short
period of time. Warranties are a consistent factor in the quality of a
treadmill. If the warranty is exceptional then it makes sense that the
treadmill is built to last. Make sure you buy treadmill that comes with a
reasonable in-home repair warranty. A one year repair warranty is a good
indication. If you plan to buy a budget treadmill consider an extended
warranty.
- Make sure your
treadmill is backed by exceptional customer service. Treadmills are
complicated pieces of machinery. They do break. Whether if you buy online or
at a retail store, make sure the company has an excellent customer service
record. Online company reviews can be found at Shopping.com and BizRate.com.
When
buying a treadmill do not get caught up by the salesperson. Do your research.
Compare prices, features and warranties. Also check out the treadmill
reviews and ratings. That will give you a good indication on what to buy whether
online or off.
|
