Many people who run in the spring, summer, or fall stop running in the winter because it is so cold. Those of us who try to keep it up in the winter know how miserable it can be when the air is cold and it burns the lungs. If you are trying to train for a specific event, treadmills can also be very useful. Programming in a certain time or incline can help you accomplish your fitness goals. This is especially helpful when you know that all you have to do to achieve a specific time or incline level is to stay on the machine and finish the workout. You can also listen to whatever music you like while running on a treadmill without the hassle of strapping some sort of device onto your body. And if you like to watch television there are few better devices that will allow you to get a good aerobic exercise while watching your favorite shows. It is pretty clear that treadmills are great, but what about all the different types of treadmills? If you are looking to buy a treadmill and are puzzled at all the different types or brands of treadmill then you are not alone.

There are two basic types of treadmill, which are the home treadmill and the commercial treadmill. The commercial treadmill is generally a much larger machine that is used in gyms. They look for industrial and heavy duty than most home treadmills. You might not want to by a large commercial treadmill for your home, but they are great for gyms or for doctor's offices. The generally higher powered motor provides more performance capability. Commercial treadmills are also useful for athletes are avid runners because they are generally more stable and tougher than the home variety of treadmill.

Home treadmills are much smaller than their commercial counterparts, but this does not mean that they are some inferior machines. It all depends on what you need a treadmill for. A home treadmill is generally much smaller and is not used for the type of extreme exercise that many professional athletes might put it through. This does not mean that home treadmills cannot be used for extensive training purposes. They are simply not as heavy duty as their commercial counterparts.

Within these two categories there are other distinctions and variations. There are manual treadmills and folding treadmills. The folding variety are generally home treadmills that are used to save space when not in use. There are naturally many different brands of treadmills with hundreds of companies producing them. Make sure that you understand the different types of treadmills before you go to buy one. Try out various models at the store before buying and do some research. Consider what your exercise needs are and what kind of space you have in your home.

Remember that you should always consult a doctor before you begin any new form of exercise or before you change the level or intensity of that exercise. Treadmills are great tools for improving your health, self esteem, image, and overall wellbeing, but they should only be used under the supervision of professional.