QT: The Accuracy of Treadmill Data and Purchasing Considerations with Thessaly Nicolaysen

This is the third and final installment of the treadmill mini-series with Ms. Thessaly Nicolasen.

If you missed the first two chats, here’s what we discussed:

• The first week we talked about why Thessaly loves the treadmill and how to fight the boredom factor.
• In week two, we covered treadmill workouts and potential injury risks associated with the treadmill.

To bring it home, today we are talking about trusting the data on the treadmill and things to consider if you’re thinking about buying your own treadmill.

Should You Trust the Data?

Not exactly a ringing endorsement, eh?

I’m admittedly hesitant to trust that the data from a treadmill run is going to be spot on, but it’s important to remember that the data from our outdoor runs isn’t exactly perfect either.

When it comes to running on the treadmill, there are a few things you can do to increase the accuracy of your data.

Use the indoor running setting on your watch.

Most running watches these days have an indoor running setting that measures your arm swing to track distance and pace.

If your watch has that setting? Use it!

Is it perfect?

But it’ll be close enough.

Just make sure you’re not holding onto the rails of your treadmill or you won’t get credit for any miles!

What about the data the treadmill provides?

Can you trust that?

How new is the treadmill? A newer treadmill is more likely to be accurate than an old one.

What’s the maintenance schedule of the equipment? How often is the treadmill used?

For treadmills at the gym, that are getting used a lot, regular maintenance/calibration is important to maintaining the accuracy of the data.

Taking the Plunge

If you’re going to take the plunge and buy a treadmill, what should you keep in mind?

If you’re thinking about getting a treadmill don’t be afraid of spending a few extra bucks to get a solid machine.

Ultimately, this is an investment in your health/fitness, and for the most part, you get what you pay for.

Does that mean you should buy the most expensive treadmill you can find with all of the fanciest bells and whistles?

Just don’t look for the cheapest available option.

Here’s one that Thessaly recommends and a review of the best treadmills on the market to help you find the right options for you.

Treadmill Talk Part III: Data Accuracy and Purchasing Considerations. #runchat Click To Tweet

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