Cheapi(ish) treadmills....anyone tried one?

[Dave7]

As many are aware long covid has severely damaged my muscles to the point that, some days, even walking around the house is very difficult.
My thinking is (particularly over winter) a lightweight treadmill might help.
That way I can maybe do 20 minutes in the morning.
I have seen a few "foldaway" models at less than £200.
Bear in mind.....I won't be running/jogging, just gentle walking.
Any thoughts on it ?

 

[Jameshow]

I cannot see why not!

A more expensive one will only be too big and heavy.

 

[CXRAndy]

Buy used, there will plenty of 14 day enthusiasts, selling theirs on ebay etc.

I've got a running machine 25years old, like new

Its eventually found a permanent home in my home gym

 

[alicat]

I'd rather walk round the block for 20 mins or go for a bimble on my bike than walk on a treadmill.

I've had some sessions on one recently and five mins was plenty. Way too boring!

 

[Dave7]

I'd rather walk round the block for 20 mins or go for a bimble on my bike than walk on a treadmill.

I've had some sessions on one recently and five mins was plenty. Way too boring!

Not much help to me as I can no longer ride and some days struggle to walk.

 

[Mo1959]

Not much help to me as I can no longer ride and some days struggle to walk.

A cheap treadmill would be ideal for you Dave. You can just do as long as you feel up to then hop off. I know we all say it’s nicer getting out if possible, but if you’re struggling there’s nothing worse than being a mile from home and the legs have had enough.

 

[fossyant]

If you've space, then why not, but how about just getting up a bit more on bad days and walking round the house or garden. When I bust my back, the docs said try a small walk each day, but don't go too far so that you can't get back - so it started by walking to the nearest lamp post and back. Next time, I'd try the next lamp post along the road, and so on.

 

[vickster]

I'd try to get one that at least has some programmes, so you can vary the incline, speed etc. Perhaps a better second hand one? I can't imagine anything new for £200 will be very advanced or robust. This company has a good range but nothing sub £600ish, where have you seen for £200?
https://www.gymequipmentsuperstore.co.uk/cardio/treadmills/folding-treadmills

 

[Dave7]

A cheap treadmill would be ideal for you Dave. You can just do as long as you feel up to then hop off. I know we all say it’s nicer getting out if possible, but if you’re struggling there’s nothing worse than being a mile from home and the legs have had enough.

Very true Mo.
My neighbour/friend has said that if I want to walk eg to the pub but don't feel able to walk back I can phone him and he will come for me. Very kind.
I am hoping that daily use of a treadmill will help.

 

[Drago]

We had a cheapish one. Part of the casing cracked within days of having it, so it went back. I think it's the sort of thing that takes a battering even with a light weight user so probably best to get a decent one.

 

[Dave7]

If you've space, then why not, but how about just getting up a bit more on bad days and walking round the house or garden. When I bust my back, the docs said try a small walk each day, but don't go too far so that you can't get back - so it started by walking to the nearest lamp post and back. Next time, I'd try the next lamp post along the road, and so on.

Yep, I do similar. Won't do much over winter though.

 

[Dave7]

I'd try to get one that at least has some programmes, so you can vary the incline, speed etc. Perhaps a better second hand one? I can't imagine anything new for £200 will be very advanced or robust. This company has a good range but nothing sub £600ish, where have you seen for £200?
https://www.gymequipmentsuperstore.co.uk/cardio/treadmills/folding-treadmills

Lots of ads when I Google it.
My requirements are simple...........
Slow walking
Possible slight incline
A rail to hold onto
I think they all have varied speed.
I will try and post a link.

 

[Dave7]

I'd try to get one that at least has some programmes, so you can vary the incline, speed etc. Perhaps a better second hand one? I can't imagine anything new for £200 will be very advanced or robust. This company has a good range but nothing sub £600ish, where have you seen for £200?
https://www.gymequipmentsuperstore.co.uk/cardio/treadmills/folding-treadmills

https://www.homefitnesscode.com/collections/treadmills/products/2-in-1-fold

 

[Tenkaykev]

Lots of ads when I Google it.
My requirements are simple...........
Slow walking
Possible slight incline
A rail to hold onto
I think they all have varied speed.
I will try and post a link.

I'm not sure if all treadmills have them, but a clip that attaches to your clothing and does an emergency stop are useful if you do come a cropper

 

[Jameshow]

We brought a decent one for £100 it needed 4 people to lift down into the cellar! Works well and the kids love it when for a bit of space from rest of us!!