Indoor running isn’t quite like outdoor running. There’s no wind blowing against you. There’s no landscape to distract you.
The machine help move you along a bit. This makes indoor running an interesting test for dedicated runner. You want to be able to train on a machine that closely resembles outdoor running while providing enough robustness to support miles and miles of running without failure.
Buying a motor and a belt doesn’t cut it. It’s about investing in a training partner who respect your stride. The problem with most consumer treadmills is that they’re designed for light joggers or walker.
They can’t take the pounding of heavy usage; their components just aren’t up to task. For serious runners, what you’re looking for are treadmill that can handle it. Some treadmills has decks that absorb shock but don’t kill your momentum.
The motor remain cool over longer intervals. A lot of these engineering decisions is what differentiates a good treadmill from a great one. Brands use cushioning technologies to stand out.
Outside the ground yields and softens your step. Inside, concrete will wreck your knee in a month. New high-end machine have special deck systems that mimic this.
Find models that offer adjustable cushioning options. Some let you take it all out for a race simulating session. Others let you secure it in place for a recovery run of miles every day.
Adjustability is key to periodization. You don’t want the same bounciness for an easy long mile day than you do for a hard tempo run.
Choosing The Best Treadmills For Serious Runners
Motor Power for Serious Runners
The belt’s ability to cope with your pace depend on the power of motor.
For serious runners, we’re talking 3.0 CHP or better (continuous duty). Why? Because that’s an indication of sustained output, not maximum burst.
Sprinting mean more stress on the motor, and if you’ve got a weak one, it won’t be able to move the belt at a consistent clip. We like the NordicTrack Commercial X9 in this category. Not only does it has a powerful motor, it also has an interactive coaching system that pushes you while ensuring the hardware isn’t pushed beyond its capabilities.
There is no overheating, which is why your workout doesn’t turn into a repair project.
Running Surface Dimensions
The other obvious factor is space on the running surface. Long runners take long stride.
If you’re running on a short or narrow belt, you’ll have to either shorten your stride or step off the back. That will alter your natural mechanics and could cause injury over time. Ideally, go for a minimum of 60-inch length x 20-inch width.
For comparison, while the Peloton Tread has a sleek design, taller runners with an aggressive stride find it cramped. Contrast that with the Sole F80, which provide a more generus run surface. Less flashy, yes, but it allows your legs to move freely without having to make adjustments subconsciously.
Incline Training Capabilities
The ability to incline also make all the difference in the world. Indoor runs on the level can become monotonous and don’t do much to get you ready for running hills. With a motor capable of inclining up to 10-15 percent, you’ll be able to properly mimic the outdoors.
The ProForm Pro 2000 is one such machine and has been touted as having very strong inclines. You can work on those hill repeats right from home. This is important when prepping for race day.
For example, if there’s going to be a lot of elevation change on your local marathon course, you need your indoor trainer to emulate this. Otherwise, you won’t be prepared once race day rolls around.
Interactive Connectivity Features
Gadgets are no longer gimmicks but necessities, like connectivity features.
Your mind stays busy with apps that modify pace and slope based off the route in front of you in the real world. Enter the world of iFit, which dominate this arena. Its guided workouts change the terrain as you go.
You virtually race along city street or over a mountain pass. For extended time on a machine, this mental engagement is every bit as valuable than the body’s workout. It transforms an otherwise boring hour into an adventure.
It makes you forget the time and focus on the scenery instead.
Prioritizing Training Needs
All that said, make it go away. The ideal treadmill is one you don’t notice at all.
When you’re running, focus on your form, your breathing, your speed. Don’t be thinking about the treadmill itself. Prioritize features that align with your training needs.
Do you want to increase your incline? Do you need good cushioning? Is a virtual coach something you’d use?
Spend more money on the setup and get hardware that’s going to hold up to your volume. You should of get serious equipment if you are a serious runner. Make a good choice and let the treadmill hum along quietly in the background.
