I’m still here! Treadmill recommendations? - Couch to 5K

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I’m still here! Treadmill recommendations?

TFG89 profile image
16 Replies

So I’ve been a bit of a recluse the last few weeks. My husband has ended up having to work too late for me to be able to run as no one else can watch our son. He’s now ended up taking a contract which means him working away all week.

ANYWAY he’s now promised to buy me a treadmill to make up for it. So has anyone got any recommendations? Ideally would prefer one which folds away but a bit lost

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TFG89 profile image
TFG89
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16 Replies
LeeU profile image
LeeUGraduate

Have a look at the JTX range, I bought one about 6-7 years ago, excellent bit of kit and it wasn't stupid money either. Get the 2 man delivery and they'll put it where you want it also I believe. Assembly is a doddle it I remember rightly.

I'm in no way affiliated to JTX, I bought one of their products and liked the quality and service.

TFG89 profile image
TFG89 in reply to LeeU

Thank you I’ll have a look!

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate

I have one, it tracks time, distance, heart beat and speed, has some pre-programmed runs and the speed goes from 2km/h to 18km/h - mine folds away in theory but it's pretty heavy so I leave it open (I only run on treadmill, so it gets a lot of use).

My advice would be to head to a big Decathlon or sports shop, check them out, stand on them, if they are fold away ones see whether you can lift it easily or not, etc. Then write down the ones you like and research them on the internet, check reviews, compare prices. Maybe see what ones your gym uses (they get pretty heavy use, so they are tried and tested as far as reliability goes - most gyms don't mind if you ask their advice or you could ask someone you know who goes there to take a look and see what make/model).

I know some can play your playlists, have USB slots to watch a film or listen to your music if you don't like earphones, etc. There are all sorts from basic to fancy, it depends a lot on your budget and how many shiny bits you want :D

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate in reply to backintime

Oh, and make sure it has a safety cord if you have small children around - mine has a cord that you can attach to your t-shirt - if you fall it detaches from the running machine and the machine stops straight away. This is also good because my children were younger when I bought it and the machine won't start if this cord isn't attached so it works like a child safety feature too, they couldn't turn it on and injure themselves when my back was turned.

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate in reply to backintime

Oh, sorry, and noise - if you're running while they're asleep, you might want to see how much noise the motor makes etc.

Sorry for all the posts, but I'm dregging up stuff from my memory when I bought mine a few years ago (bought it for my ex and I get to use it now)

TFG89 profile image
TFG89 in reply to backintime

Haha no it’s helpful! It’ll be living in the garage so the other end of the house from little ones room and also takes away risk of him getting hold of it thankfully

Annion profile image
Annion

Hi. Good to hear your still about. I've got a Reebok one. It's big but sturdy. Has all sorts of pre programmes in it but I just set my own pace. It's sat gathering dust right now till I can get back on it. It does fold up but still takes up a bit of room. Definitely worth the purchase if you can't go running outside

TFG89 profile image
TFG89 in reply to Annion

I’ve been looking at them. They look good. I’m hoping I’ll still manage one at the weekend but not during the week =[

Annion profile image
Annion in reply to TFG89

I think as long as you keep putting one foot in front of the other it doesn't really matter where you run. I'm hoping I should be back to week one by July. Good luck an keep it up 😊

MarkyD profile image
MarkyDGraduate

I'm not a big believer in spending money on this type of purchase. Treadmills can cost quite a lot of money, and also take up loads of space. The temptation to get one 'that folds away' is very high because it will save you space. But by definition, this means a treadmill that is more flimsy, and I promise, even the idea of unfolding it will be enough disincentive to not use it.

So, why not try a post on FreeCycle in the 'Wanted' section?? I bet that you will have someone who wants rid of a treadmill (or more likely, wants to reclaim the space in their house). You may need to borrow a larger car or hire a van to go collect it, but you won't have to spend anything.

My 'official' advice for anyone tempted to buy a treadmill is - 1) Consider the budget that you have for the treadmill; 2) Collect together the required banknotes; 3) Go outside; 4) Set fire to the banknotes. Buying a treadmill is just money down the drain. Sorry, just my opinion. It'll get used for 3-6 weeks, then once a month for a few months, then it will not be used anymore.

If you do get a treadmill, plonk it in the middle of your room (not in a shed, garage, conservatory, back bedroom). It needs to be somewhere that you cannot avoid, and not somewhere that will be too hot or too cold or dusty or where you will have to move things to use it.

Jell6 profile image
Jell6Graduate in reply to MarkyD

Sounds very much like my sisters.

In a conservatory with a sheet over it.

She got it because she didn't want to run in the rain.

I don't think it's been switched on for 3 months.

TFG89 profile image
TFG89 in reply to MarkyD

Unfortunately I just don’t have any other option. If I want to do this then it has to be on a treadmill. I will be managing a toddler, two dogs and a job on my own five days a week. The garage in the house we’re buying is integrated fully useable as it’ll also be an office - this is also why it needs to fold away. I’d also much rather a new one for the warranty I’ve been stung too many times before!

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate

I'm on week 8 on the treadmill, I also have children plus spring allergies - sometimes it's the only way not to leave children alone in the house when you don't have help. You can do this, I try not to get fixated on the numbers though, they are mesmerising and disheartening all at the same time

TFG89 profile image
TFG89 in reply to backintime

Thanks =] I’m planning on taking my iPad in there and watching tv to distract me from the numbers 🤣

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate in reply to TFG89

I cover it up with a towel and have music on loud (I'm in the basement) - which lets me peek but doesn't stare at me lol

Cosmo501 profile image
Cosmo501Graduate

Hi TFG89. Hope you’re managing to juggle everything ok! Did you manage to find a treadmill? Hope it’s all working out.

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