There are lots of great marketing people in the treadmill industry today. Their job is to make you think that you need the features they're offering when the truth is, you really don't. So what happens is you'll spend more money than what you're supposed to.

This guide aims to educate you on what these marketing traps are and why you should avoid them. And as a result, you'll be able to save money on treadmills you'll be buying.

1) Extended Warranties

Some treadmill sellers will offer extended warranties on their treadmills. If this is the case, I suggest you decline. Most quality treadmill companies cover their product long enough that there's really no need for any extensions. Besides, this option would just cause you more headaches due to some dishonest warranty companies.

2) Program Choices

Another way to save money on treadmills is by choosing a machine with only a few built-in workout programs. Most people don't really use these programs and if they do, they more often than not stick to just 1 or 2 programs. So buying a treadmill with tons of programmed workouts would be a total waste of money.

3) Heart Rate Straps

Since working out in your target heart rate offers numerous benefits, treadmill companies nowadays offer heart rate straps for an extra fee. If this was offered to you, always say "no". Heart rate straps are very uncomfortable when running. So you'll probably just try it once and never use it again.

A better way to workout in your target heart rate zone is through the use of heart rate/pulse handgrips. It is more comfortable to use and is already included in most treadmills, no need to pay extra.

4) Folding Feature

Although I do admit it does save space at home, but after a long grueling workout, some people may no longer want to fold and move the treadmill, only to unfold and move it back again the next day. So just save your money and buy a non-folding treadmill.

5) Running Belt

Treadmill companies would try to impress you with large running spaces and overly thick belts. Truth is... the larger the belt, the harder the motor has to work to keep the belt moving. And thick belts tend to hold additional heat which decreases the belt life. So don't be lured by impressive belt sizes. Just choose a belt that you can comfortably run on and nothing more. The standard 18"x 52" belt is enough for most runners.

Those are the ways you can save money on treadmills. Hopefully, you found it enlightening and would use it to avoid some, if not all, of these marketing traps.

About the Author:

Aaron Co is an avid treadmill user for more than 6 years now. He is the founder of TreadmillTips.com. A website that provides unbiased treadmill reviews & buying tips so shoppers can choose the fitness equipment that suits them best.

This article may be reprinted in its entirety only if unaltered and the resource box is included, with live and spiderable links pointing to http://www.treadmilltips.com