Treadmill machines are a physical fitness system used for running and walking indoors. The machine consists of a special moving platform that is powered by a flywheel or an electric motor. The rear movement of the belt allows the person who trains to run or walk at an equally opposing speed, which means that the speed of the belt is the speed with which you work out.

Controlling and measuring devices can thus be installed on the treadmill exercise machine, thus being able to monitor the number of burnt calories or the amount of effort involved. Besides the motor-powered variant, there is also a mechanical exercise treadmill that is powered by the movement of the user who pushes the belt when running or walking. Mechanical or electric, the exercise treadmill model should be chosen to match the specificity of the location where it will be used.

The motor driven treadmill models are definitely more expensive and a lot heavier too. These are usually found in professional gyms or special physiotherapy clinics. For residential use, many people prefer the less costly lightweight alternative of the simple machine version powered by the motion force of the user alone.

In the 1800s, the exercise treadmill was used to reform incarcerated criminals. It was one hundred and fifty years later that the exercise treadmill started being used in medical centers and hospitals for the diagnosis of people who suffered from lung and heart disease. The the popularity of the exercise treadmill and bike increased only after 1968 when they were scientifically proved great for cardiovascular training.

The benefits of working out with an exercise treadmill are the same with a rowing exercise machine or any other cardiovascular exercise: the alleviation of health problems, a better health condition and an improvement of the heart rate. Continual exercising with a treadmill machine increases physical endurance while reducing the stress in ankles, knees and lower back.

Limitations and advantages have been equally identified for the use of an exercise treadmill. People who use such a device for weight reduction have the chance of monitoring the heart rate and the amount of calories they burn. Furthermore, the speed and the slope can be adjusted depending on the needs. Even so, keep in mind the fact that no matter how high an exercise treadmill is rated, it cannot stand a real comparison with outdoor running or walking. It is furthermore important to be aware of the possibility of treadmill accidents.The indoor use and the lack of ground contact have a serious impact on the condition of the trainee and the quality of the activity.