Buying a treadmill? Chances are that you want to compare prices to find the best deal for you. Given all the options available can save you hundreds of dollars.

But where do you look?

There are in general 3 places you can buy your tread mill. This article describes what you should know about each. You learn the advantages and disadvantages – to help you find the best treadmill.

1. Department Stores

Large stores such as Wal-Mart, Sears, Target sell a variety of brands in their sports and fitness sections.

What you should know: Although these stores appear to offer more brand names, they are almost always produced by a manufacturer – Icon Health and Fitness.

Icon is one of the largest manufacturers in the market today and produces such brands as Proform, Weslo, Epic, Image, Nordic Track, Free Spirit and Reebok.

These products have many gadgets such as CD player, TV, iFit compatibility and more. However, they are not necessarily known for high quality damping, stability or durability.

They generally offer few guarantees. For entry level products, 90 days on parts and labor is what you get. If you want more coverage, you must pay extra for that.

Retailers are often not very knowledgeable about products, fitness or how to choose the right product to suit your personal needs. So if you need to buy from a store make sure you do your homework before you go.

Similarly, in a shop which is a stand alone sports and fitness store, you’ll usually pay extra for shipping and delivery of your product (about $ 150 – $ 200) which is an additional cost to consider.

2. Specialty Stores Sport and Fitness

These are stores like Fitness Depot, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sport Chalet etc.

What you should know: These stores offer premium brands such as Precor treadmills, Landic, trimline, Star Trac, Keys and more.

Technically you get more choice at these stores because the products are made by brands with more than 1 product line.

Sales staff are generally better informed about products at these stores and can tell you more about the model, based on your need. These vendors are often on commission and may try to influence you in purchasing a machine at a price higher than you actually need.

You will tend to pay for shipping and delivery of your product when you purchase from one of these stores (which could cost you $ 150-200 depending on the size of your treadmill). However, if you go online on one of these stores websites, you may be able to get a discount or free shipping.

3. Online – direct from the manufacturer

Buying a treadmill online is an option that is increasingly popular with buyers. There are online stores that specialize in fitness and carry products from manufacturers online.

What you should know: manufacturers sell directly online to consumers, and pass on the margin that they would normally give to a retailer to the customer directly. As a result, customers can save up to $ 800 on a branded treadmill.

Shopping online is easy and convenient since you can search for brands and prices in the comfort of your living room. You have a greater choice of brands than either option above and can therefore make better purchasing decisions. You can also compare prices and features online.

Another bonus is that online retailers usually offer free shipping, which can also save you hundreds of dollars. There is no sales person to interact with, so you can take your time to decide, without any pressure.

The disadvantage of buying a treadmill online is that you cannot try out the treadmill first. Many people get around this by trying them out in the stores first and then buying online.

No matter where you buy your tread mill, do not forget to take your time, have fun and consider your own workout needs and budget before buying.

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