Treadmill: Informed and confident

Buyers now have a number of choices when it comes to buying treadmills. These can be broken down into two major options - in person or by remote purchase. Some people aren't comfortable with remote purchase options such as mail-order, TV shopping networks or the internet, and prefer to buy directly from an actual store, either a shop that specializes in the product or through a larger retail outlet like a department store.

Remote Purchase:

TV - shopping network, regular advertisement, special offer
Mail order catalogue
Internet - wholesale, company storefront, department-style storefront, auction site, private seller

In Person:

Wholesale
Retail - specialty store, department store, discount store, private seller

Each option has different advantages and disadvantages, and these may be influenced by your individual taste and previous buying experience. Staff at specialty stores can usually offer the most knowledgeable advice about different treadmills, but on the other hand the prices are often more attractive at larger discount or department stores. Buying online can give you excellent opportunities to shop around and compare discounted prices - the major disadvantage is that you can't see the product before you buy it.

Carefully weigh up the pros and cons to determine which option is most suitable for you.

Tip: It is always a good idea to actually try out the treadmill you are thinking of buying. Wear comfortable clothes and do a shorter version of the workout you're planning to do. If you walk, walk. If you will run, run. Is the belt smooth? Does it squeak? Are the handles at a comfortable level? Is the console easy to use as you do your workout?

Choosing a seller

Many factors have an influence when deciding where to buy a product, and these need to be weighed up; you may have a tight budget, in which case the sellers who offers the best prices will be the most attractive to you. Alternatively, you may prefer to deal with a seller who has excellent customer service and employs knowledgeable, friendly and helpful staff. Experienced salespeople can be a boon if you are still unsure about whether to get a treadmill with internet download capacity or a programmable exercise routine option. The major factors that need to be considered are presented below:

Choosing a Seller Checklist

Reputation - time established, fair dealing, complaints record, good name, reviews
Price - discounts, specials, less for cash, bonus schemes, rebates
Sweeteners - some sellers are more likely to add items to 'sweeten' the deal, such as a surge protector for the power-point
Customer service - product knowledge, at point-of-sale, after service
Support - maintenance and repair services offered, spare parts, troubleshooting and advice

Other considerations:

Where possible look for members of professional associations or bodies
A prior relationship with a company can be a big advantage

Once you have factored in all these different considerations, choosing who to buy from often comes down simply to your personal preference. It is important to buy from a reputable, reliable seller, as this offers you the most protection if something goes wrong with the product.

Tip: Some manufacturers will void your warranty if you buy your treadmill online. Check the fine print.

Ordering and delivery

There is often little to choose from between products and sellers, and small things can make a real difference to your pocket and the satisfaction you gain in your purchase. It's a good idea to anticipate any issues associated with your purchase that might arise either immediately after buying the product, or in the months and years you will be using - and enjoying - the product

Many of these issues will only become significant if there is some kind of problem, but it's a good idea to investigate before you make your final purchase. Ask the seller about guarantees and return policies, as these can vary between sellers - some return policies include a re-stocking fee, for instance. Other factors to consider include the availability of spare parts, and whether the seller is an authorized repair centre, or can recommend one locally.

Purchase and Aftersales Checklist

Money back guarantee - unlimited, limited, time frame, what is covered
Return policy - duration, re-stocking fees, inclusions, exceptions, exchange or refund
Shipping - method, fees, estimated timeframe
Insurance - for shipping, delivery; cost and exclusions
Repairs - by seller, authorized dealer location, costs (shipping, minimum fees)
Maintenance - service available, advice, products available, costs
Parts availability - what is the availability and cost of spare parts?
Delivery - available, fees, timeframe, flexibility of delivery times
Installation - available, fees, professional required

Tip: If you are having the treadmill delivered, look for at least a 30 day money back guarantee as it puts the risk back onto the vendor to have the machine arrive safely.

Buying a treadmill can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Once you've worked your way through all three steps of the Buyz123 three step guide you can buy exactly the right treadmill for your needs.

Video Links

Cadence space saving treadmill - User review
This video shows the treadmill folded up and out for use. Reliable treadmill with smooth, powerful 1.3 CHP Impulse drive system. (1m 14s)