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TREADMILL

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A treadmill is a piece of indoors sporting equipment used to allow for running without moving any distance. The word treadmill originally designated a type of mill which was operated by a person treading steps of a wheel to grind grain (see treadwheel.)

The principle is a belt system (an electric motor or flywheel driving a circular run of material) where the top of the belt moves to the rear so as to allow a runner to run an equal, and necessarily opposite speed. Thus the speed of the run can easily be set or measured (the rate at which the belt moves is the rate at which the runner moves). One exception to the belt system is a track system used by Woodway USA treadmills. This system is similar to tracks used on military tanks.

  • Remain at the same location for the duration of the run
  • Equal ground for the duration of the run
  • Known speeds at all times of the run, and being able to change speeds as needed
  • Allows for exact adjustment of gradient and speed
  • As all factors of the run are known, the exact energy expended may be calculated
  • Some treadmills have special features such as step count, heart rate monitors, amount of calories burnt, etc.
  • Running or walking on a treadmill can be an effective way to workout compared to other complex cardiovascular exercises.
  • They can be used in the home to take away the hassles of going out. This allows the rider to watch television, read, or do a variety of other things while using their treadmill.
  • Run indoors in bad weather

[edit] Other Uses

As it is basically a conveyor belt, the treadmill can be used for activities other than running. If horses are being tested (especially in jockey racing) they will be put on a specially constructed treadmill.

[edit] Repairs to treadmills

Treadmills are considered as the most complex type of fitness equipment to repair by repair professionals. They combine mechanical skills with electrical skills, and sometimes require computer skills in situations where the treadmill is used for stress testing in medical facilities. Because of the complexity of repair, many times fixing a treadmill is better left to professionals.