The treadmill is often considered to be the cornerstone of any fitness facility which is why it is crucial for any gym or fitness studio owner to find the right commercial treadmill.
There is a growing demand for diverse and high-quality workout experiences, and investing in the right equipment can greatly impact your business’s success. It’s important to make sure that you select a commercial treadmill that is both durable as well as future-proofed. Let’s take a closer look at the 6 essential tips to find the right commercial treadmill for your gym or studio.
Why Choosing the Right Commercial Treadmill Matters for Your Gym or Studio
Choosing the right commercial treadmill is a critical decision for any gym or studio. The treadmill is more than just a simple piece of equipment, it is a long-term investment that can impact your business’s overall reputation, member satisfaction, and of course, profitability. In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for treadmill-based workouts that range from traditional running and walking to more specialised inclined and HIIT training sessions. And, as a result, there is now a demand for reliable, high-quality treadmills that can meet the diverse needs of every gym member.
Regardless of whether they are athletes looking for high-performance machines, or older adults who are seeking low-impact exercise options, the treadmill must be able to cater to a broad spectrum of users. Choosing a subpar treadmill that is incapable of meeting these demands can lead to dissatisfaction, potential injuries, and eventually to costly repairs and replacements.
Key Features to Look for in Commercial Treadmills
There are several key features to look for in commercial treadmills, that are generally not found on residential units available in the current market. Knowing exactly what to look for will ensure that the treadmill you select is durable, user-friendly, and more than capable of handling the higher levels of traffic that are typical in gyms or studios.
Motor Power and Durability
The heart of any treadmill is its motor. And the power of that motor will determine the machine’s overall performance capabilities. Commercial treadmills generally have a motor that can provide a continuous duty horsepower (CHP) rating of at least 3. This ensures that the treadmill is more than capable of handling the demands of prolonged and intense usage without breaking down or overheating.
Let’s not forget that the motors used in commercial-grade treadmills are designed to be used for hours on end with minimal downtime. As a result, you want to make sure that whatever unit you purchase comes with a motor that features a robust warranty of at least 5 years. This longer warranty is an indication that the manufacturer is confident the motor will last for years to come.
Belt and Deck Quality
The part of any treadmill that sees the most wear and tear are the belt and the deck. This is where metaphorical rubber hits the road! For commercial treadmills, the belt itself should be extremely thick and very durable. If possible, it should be at least two plies thick and maintenance-free. Three-ply belts are an even better option if available.
The deck itself should offer runners good shock absorption in order to minimise the amount of impact on the users’ joints. This will make workouts safer and more comfortable. Many of the high-end commercial treadmills feature a reversible deck, which will allow you to double their lifespan simply by flipping them over after one side wears out.
Weight Capacity and Stability
Unlike residential treadmills, commercial-grade treadmills should be built to accommodate a wide range of users, especially those who are heavier. You will want to look for treadmills that have a carrying capacity of at least 150 kg, which will ensure that they can safely support most gym members.
Stability also plays an important role in commercial-grade treadmill selection. The treadmill itself should feel solid and secure, especially during high-speed sprints. You’ll want to look for machines that feature a very sturdy frame, preferably those that are made from high-quality steel or aluminium materials as this will reduce the amount of wobbling and increase its overall durability.
Incline and Speed Options
In order to keep users engaged, it’s important to select treadmills that provide multiple incline and speed options. Incline and speed options will help you cater to the various fitness levels and training goals of your members. The incline feature itself is particularly important because it allows users to simulate walking or running uphill. This will help to increase the intensity of the workout and engage a different group of muscles.
Most commercial treadmills will offer a wide range of incline capabilities that can exceed 15%. They will also offer a maximum speed capability of at least 20 km/h, in order to cater to your professional sprinters. Some of the more advanced models available today also provide you with decline settings and resistance options which can provide a more comprehensive workout routine.
User Interface and Technology Integration
In today’s day and age, the user interface and technological integration of treadmills play a significant role in the workout experience. When choosing a commercial-grade treadmill for your gym or studio, look for units that feature an intuitive and easy-to-use console that comes complete with a variety of different pre-programmed workouts, and quick access buttons. Your users will want to be able to track key metrics with ease like distance, calories, speed, as well as heart rate.
Units today will also feature technological integration capabilities such as Bluetooth connectivity. Users should be able to connect their wearable gadgets to the treadmill in order to track their individual progress and enhance their overall user experience. Some commercial treadmills even offer virtual running experiences which will allow users to simulate running in different environments around the world. These kinds of features will not only attract tech-savvy users but can also provide you with a competitive edge in today’s highly demanding fitness market.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Of course, the ease of maintenance and the availability of service are also crucial factors to take into consideration when making a final selection. Commercial treadmills undergo a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important to select a model that is easy to maintain and comes complete with features like self-lubricating belts.
While there are many options available on the market today, you should select a unit that comes with at least a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, and more specifically, one that offers service centres in your area. By having a strong warranty and easily accessible service centres, you can save your gym or studio a lot of money in the long run.
Upfront Costs vs Return on Investment
Let’s face it, the initial cost of purchasing a commercial-grade treadmill can be quite significant. But it’s essential to take into consideration just how much you might spend in order to keep a lower-quality treadmill up and running. Understanding the relationship between the upfront costs and the long-term return on investment is a critical part of making a smart purchasing decision.
Upfront Costs
Without question, commercial treadmills are an expense to be carefully considered before purchasing. They can easily cost anywhere from $5,000 to more than $30,000 per unit. The cost of each treadmill can vary depending on the brand, specifications, and features. While it might be tempting to simply opt for a cheaper model, it’s important to remember that the lower upfront costs generally come with a compromise in the unit’s long-term durability, user satisfaction, and functionality.
When you cut corners on quality, you end up with higher maintenance costs, shorter lifespans, and more frequent repairs. Not only does this increase the overall cost of operating the treadmill, but also negatively impacts the reputation of your gym or studio.
Return on Investment
The upfront cost of a high-quality commercial-grade treadmill might seem steep, but the long-term benefits associated with reduced maintenance costs and increased durability can mean a substantial return on investment. In order to properly evaluate the ROI of your treadmill, let’s consider the following factors:
Longevity:
Higher-quality commercial treadmills are simply built to last. They can often exceed more than a decade of use with proper maintenance. And, although more expensive, these durable pieces of exercise equipment can easily pay off in the long run, simply by reducing the need to pay for costly replacements or repairs.
Member Satisfaction:
High-performance treadmills that are well-maintained, can contribute to your overall member retention rates. It is a well-known fact that satisfied gym members are more likely to renew their memberships and even recommend your gym to friends and family, which can drive revenue growth.
Versatility:
By selecting a commercial-grade treadmill that offers a wide range of features and training options, you are even able to attract a new, diverse clientele. This versatility can increase the appeal of your gym to both casual walkers as well as serious runners, which can lead to even higher membership rates.
Reduced Downtime:
Reliable treadmills are less likely to break down, which means less downtime. By ensuring that your equipment is always available for use, you can maximise the usage rate of each machine and improve your overall ROI.
Future-Proofing Your Investment: Will Your Commercial Treadmills Keep Up with the Latest Fitness Technology?
New technologies and trends emerge on a regular basis, which keeps the fitness industry constantly evolving. As a gym or studio owner, it is crucial to ensure that the equipment you invest in today, will still be relevant and highly competitive in the years to come. The concept of future-proofing your treadmill involves taking into consideration how well the machine that you purchase will be able to adapt to or incorporate any new technologies as they emerge.
Compatibility with Fitness Apps and Software
Currently, one of the key trends in the fitness industry is the ability to integrate digital technology with workout equipment. There is a wide selection of fitness apps and software available on the market today that help users to track their workouts, and provide them with personalised training programs. When you choose a commercial treadmill, look for models that offer compatibility with many of the popular fitness apps like Peloton, Zwift, and even MyFitnessPal. This digital compatibility will allow users to sync their workouts with their favourite apps in order to enhance their overall experience and engagement. Bluetooth features also allow users to connect their wearable gadgets to the treadmill in order to track their heart rate, oxygen levels, and more.
Upgradeable Software and Firmware
Moore’s law states that technology will double every two years, and as this technology continues to advance, having the ability to update your treadmill’s software and firmware is an important feature. Keeping your equipment up-to-date with the latest performance improvements, features, and security patches is a crucial step to future-proofing your gym or studio. Treadmills that are capable of upgrading their software and firmware, are also able to adapt to future technological advancements without having to invest in new hardware.
Advanced Metrics and Tracking
Most modern treadmills will offer users more than just basic speed and distance tracking. Commercial treadmills provide users with metrics such as caloric burn rates, power output, and even cadence tracking. This will provide users with deeper insights into their progress and performance. When selecting a treadmill, consider units that offer comprehensive tracking capabilities and the ability to integrate with a user’s wearable fitness devices. This type of data collection can be appealing to serious athletes and users who are data-driven. Ultimately this will make your gym or studio more attractive to a broader audience.
Interactive and Immersive Experiences
As technology changes, the demand for more interactive and immersive workout experiences increases each day. Many users want a virtual running experience such as live stream classes or gamified workouts. These can be amazing features that will enhance the user’s engagement. Treadmills that feature high-definition screens and the ability to connect to interactive workout platforms can provide users with experiences that will set your gym or studio apart from its competitors.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
It’s also important to remember that sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important to many gymgoers. As a result, it’s important to select a unit that offers energy-efficient features that can help future-proof your investment. There are some units available on the market today that offer self-generating power systems that are capable of converting the energy produced by the user’s movement into electricity. This can help to reduce the treadmill’s reliance on external power sources. Not only does this lower the energy cost of your business, but it also aligns with the growing trend towards a more sustainable fitness industry.
Versatility for Emerging Trends
Let’s face it, fitness trends are ever-changing, and having something versatile enough to accommodate new types of workouts is crucial. In recent years, High-Intensity Interval Training, which is also known as HIIT, has grown in popularity. Treadmills that are capable of offering quick acceleration, deceleration, as well as incline adjustments are perfect for this type of training. By selecting commercial treadmills that are capable of supporting a wide range of workouts, you can ensure that your gym or studio remains relevant with the emergence of each new trend.
Curved treadmills are also a great option for group HIIT classes, because they are user-driven, rather than motor-driven and are particularly useful for short bursts of activity.
Our Favourite Commercial Treadmills in Australia in 2024
Choosing a quality commercial treadmill is a balancing act. You will need to take into consideration factors such as features, quality, and budget when making a final decision. Here are some of our favourite commercial treadmills in Australia for 2024.
Life Fitness Integrity Series Treadmill
When it comes to reliability and high performance, look no further than the Life Fitness Integrity Series. This series of commercial treadmills is known for its smooth operation and durability. The Integrity Series is equipped with a large running surface, cushioned deck, and a powerful motor.
Key Features:
- 4 HP AC motor
- MagnaDrive motor controller
- FlexDeck Shock Absorption System
- Available with a large touchscreen console
- Compatibility with LFconnect Software
- Supports interactive workouts
- Supports fitness app integration
Why We Love It:
Life Fitness has a well-established reputation for producing some of the most durable and user-friendly commercial-grade equipment in the industry. The Integrity Series is no exception. These units are built to withstand even the heaviest of use in commercial environments, while simultaneously providing an extremely comfortable and engaging user experience.
Technogym Skillrun TX 500
If you’re looking for a commercial treadmill that is perfect for serious athletes and fitness buffs, then look no further than the Technogym Skillrun TX 500. This high-performance unit combines advanced technology with versatility, offering users features that can cater to a wider range of different workout types. Whether you’re looking for a treadmill that can handle endurance running or HIIT routines, the Skillrun TX 500 has what you need.
Key Features:
- 10 HP brushless motor
- Dual Proprioceptive Belt
- 220kg (485-pound) maximum capacity rating
- Multidrive Technology
- Can be used for resistance training
- Capable of sled pushing
- Large, responsive touchscreen console
- Large variety of workout programs
- Virtual training experiences
- Integration with the Mywellness cloud platform
Why We Love It:
If you’re looking for the perfect commercial treadmill that is capable of catering to a diverse clientele, then you are looking for the Skillrun TX 500. This high-performance treadmill is perfect for everyone from competitive runners to functional trainers. It has innovative features, which make it a versatile choice for any studio or gym.
Precor TRM 885
The Precor TRM 885 is known for its durability and advanced biomechanics. This commercial-grade treadmill is designed to mimic natural running and walking patterns, which provides users with a smoother and more comfortable experience
Key Features:
- 4 HP AC motor
- Ground Effects Impact Control System
- Integrated Footplant Technology
- Adjusts belt speed to match the user’s stride
- P82 touchscreen console
- Personalized workout programs.
- Durable, low-maintenance design
- Reversible deck
Why We Love It:
If you’re looking for a workhorse in the commercial treadmill market, then look no further than the Precor TRM 885. This particular unit is built to last and offers an excellent balance of performance, comfort, as well as technology. It is the perfect choice for any gym or studio that is looking for that competitive edge.
Matrix Performance Plus
Matrix sell a wide selection of exercise equipment for both commercial and residential use. The popular Matrix Performance Plus commercial treadmill is designed for modern gyms and studios and features robust construction and advanced workout options. Simply put, the Matrix Performance Plus is a favourite among tech-savvy runners.
Key Features:
- Up to 20% incline range and max speed of 26km/hr
- Ultimate Deck System with Pure Stride cushioning system
- 22″ HD touchscreen display
- Wireless charging for members personal devices
- Apple watch and WiFi connectivity
- Virtual Active technology offers immersive workouts in 60 virtual exotic locations
- 16 workout programs
Why We Love It:
Known for its combination of durability, immersive workout experiences, and advanced features, the Matrix Performance Plus is in a class all to its own. It is the perfect choice for gyms and studios that want to offer their members a treadmill that goes far beyond the basics.
Selecting the right commercial treadmill is a decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. You will need to weigh up things like its features, durability, upfront cost, and long-term ROI when making that final decision. By focusing on key features such as motor horsepower, deck quality, future-proofing capabilities, and technological integration, you can choose a treadmill that will meet the needs of your members.
When you choose to invest in high-quality commercial treadmills, you are ensuring that your gym or studio is well-equipped to handle the demands of a diverse clientele. From casual walkers to serious runners, with the right equipment you can create the perfect workout environment for everyone.
With so many options to choose from today, it’s important to take the time to research and compare all of your favorite models before making any final decision. Remember, a commercial treadmill is an investment in the future of your gym or studio. And, selecting a good investment will enhance your reputation and contribute to your gym’s long-term success.
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