Treadmill Parts

And we will keep this basic - you don't need a degree in engineering to own and maintain a treadmill!

Essentially, a treadmill is a conveyor belt with a few additions.

The key elements are the motor and drive system, treadbelt, rollers, deck, frame, console and electronics.

Motor and Drive System

The drive unit consists of the motor, flywheel, motor drive belt and front roller. The energy generated by the motor is transferred via the drive belt, which runs around the flywheel to the front roller, which turns the treadbelt.

Treadbelt

Treadmill belts are the treadmill parts that you'll come into contact with the most as its the surface on which you'll be walking or running.

The belt is a strip of rubber typically made of a composite of rubber and other materials sandwiched together.

Treadmill belt wear is a real problem and belts by their very nature are prone to wear and tear and need to be looked after - a Treadmill belt lubricant is generally a good idea.

The belt runs over rollers.

Rollers

These support the belt and provide the surface over which it runs. The bigger the rollers the better - 2.5" upwards are ideal - as they help to reduce belt friction and the resultant belt tension, which helps to prolong the life of the belt.

Deck

The deck supports the running surface and sits underneath the rollers. Decks flex so as to provide some impact absorption.

One of the most common problems in cheaper treadmills are cracked decks. Clearly, the thicker the deck the more likely it is to last.

If the deck inclines, there will be a small electric motor that increases or reduces the gradient.

Frame

Frames are commonly made of steel, with higher end machines sporting aluminium frames.

Steel is fine but aluminium is lighter, stronger and resistant to rust and corrosion - but more expensive!

Console and electronics

The display console and related controls are the treadmill's user interface. They provide useful data pertaining to your workout and enable you to control a number factors, such as speed, incline, heart rate through pulse grips or wireless chest belts and so on.

These are the least important elements of a treadmill - but the ones that often have most influence on a buyer's decision!

Ok, that's a simple run through of the treadmill parts. Make sure that the treadmill you choose has a decent warranty.

We would suggest a lifetime on the frame, three years on the motor (10 years and upwards are becoming increasingly common on cheaper machines) and parts and one year on the labour as the absolute minimum.

Finally, make sure you get a regular treadmill service - it will save you money in the long run (no pun intended!).

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