Are you trying to get your cardiovascular system in shape? Do you want to know how to use a treadmill at home or at the gym safely? A treadmill is one of the best pieces of exercise equipment you can use to improve your physical fitness, particularly your cardiovascular system. With that being said, it helps to first learn about the safety features treadmills have.
In today’s blog post, we’ll be going over some helpful safety features that you will normally find in a treadmill. Keep reading to learn more!
Safety Features Of Treadmills
Treadmills are one of the most popular pieces of gym machines. However, if not used properly, it can lead to injuries or accidents. Luckily, treadmills are fitted with certain safety features to prevent these from happening. Examples of these safety features include:
1). Safety Bars or Arm Grips
Most modern treadmills come with arm grips or safety bars that allow users to catch themselves as they use the treadmill. Slipping and falling from your treadmill is one of the worst accidents that can happen. However, the grip handles allow you to grasp onto something steady so that you don’t wipe out from the treadmill.
Therefore, combined with the emergency safety switch-off, the grab handles reduce your risk of falling from the treadmill and injuring yourself badly.
2). Emergency Shut-Off Feature
A safe treadmill should have an easy-to-use emergency shut-off safety feature. The moment you slip, the shut-off safety feature should stop the treadmill immediately, reducing the risk of falling and injuring yourself.
Most treadmills will have a safety key, button, clip, or tether. Others will combine at least two of the features, such as an emergency shut-off tether and an emergency key. It’s recommended that you choose a treadmill with a tether shut-off switch as it’s the easiest to reach and the most intuitive to use.
3). Easy To Read And Easy To Navigate Screen
The user interface is another safety feature you will find on many treadmills. The display user interface should be intuitive and easy to use while jogging. The last thing you want is to press the wrong button because you cannot see the user interface clearly as you jog. Ideally, you should be in a position to choose the right setting without getting confused at all.
In the same light, the navigation interface should offer clear tactile feedback when pressed. Getting feedback that you’ve chosen the right setting will enhance your ability to select the correct settings.
4). Amply Sized Deck
The size of the treadmill deck can also be considered a safety feature. The deck size should fit your walking and running strides. A deck that is too small will restrict your freedom of movement as you jog or run and you’ll struggle to run comfortably.
For instance, a narrow deck increases the chances of crossing your legs, which increases the risk of the dreaded and dangerous treadmill wipeout. On the other hand, a short deck will not give you ample room to stretch your legs as you jog or run on the treadmill.
If you’re on the market for a new treadmill, size the deck to have enough room for you to jog or run comfortably. Don’t just look at the dimensions of a treadmill with the only intention of saving space in your home gym. It’s important to consider your comfort while on the treadmill.
5). Slow Start Feature
All treadmills will start slow and accelerate gradually to match the speed you’ve chosen in your settings. These reduce the speed shock you experience as you start moving.
6). Stable Belt That Offers Excellent Cushioning And Support
As a safety feature, the treadmill belt should be stable and offer excellent cushioning. Stability and cushioning enhance your comfort while protecting your ankles and knees from hard impact.
Final Thoughts
Many modern treadmills come with the above safety features. It will be helpful for you to take some time to learn how to use these safety features. The safety features are designed specifically to safeguard your health and well-being while exercising.
Fitness Equipment Warehouse offers a wide range of treadmills at the most affordable prices. Get in touch with our team of experts today to learn more about treadmills and make an informed choice at (08) 9455 2810 or leave an enquiry.