Exercise Treadmill

The Exercise Treadmill is one of the most popular fitness equipment among fitness enthusiasts. This fitness machine is indoor sporting equipment which is used for walking and running exercises while in a stationary position.

The mechanism of the Exercise Treadmill features a belt system. The belt is connected to an electric motor or flywheel. The belt moves in a continuous path on which one can walk or run. The running speed can be set and measured by one’s choice.

One can choose from motor-driven heavy-duty versions which are also expensive. The cheaper machines are lighter and simpler and can be used when the walker pushes the belt to walk.

Origins of the Exercise Treadmill

The history of treadmills goes back over a century when it was used for reforming prisoners. It was innovation made in 1817 by Sir William Cubitt and hence it was also known as ‘treadwheels’. In 1894, the first private health club was started in 1894 by Professor Louis Attila.

The cardio workout machines were first used for the hospital and used in the club later. In 1952, Dr. Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton of the University of Washington invented the first medical treadmill for lung and heart disease diagnosis. The home treadmill and exercise bike were developed with Dr. Kenneth Cooper's research on aerobic exercise benefits.

Other Uses of the Exercise Treadmill

Apart from running, the Exercise Treadmill is also used in horse racing. The horses are put on various exercises on special treadmills. In the car industry, large treadmills are also used for various testing of the vehicle’s performance.

Advantages of the Exercise Treadmill

It is used as a popular cardiovascular exercise machine which increases one’s endurance. It also features shock absorption systems which reduces strain on knees, ankles and the lower back.

Exercise Treadmill can also be used as indoor fitness equipment when the outside weather is not favorable. Instead of joining in a gym, one can exercise at home too. The machine also gives speed and slope adjustment. Some machines feature heart rate monitors, step count and calories burning rate.

Note: Electric exercising treadmills are expensive and occupy a large space. Ordinary treadmills do not have steep slope adjustments like in medical treadmills.