To determine how a treadmill is better, mechanical or magnetic, consider the types of treadmills and their differences.
There are 2 types of treadmills: electric and mechanical. Mechanical are divided into 2 subspecies: conventional and magnetic.
How are they different?
Their fundamental difference is the way of the tape drive( due to what the tape moves):
- Electric: due to the electric motor.
- Normal mechanical: by pushing away from the tape.
- Magnetic mechanical: due to pushing away from the tape, but the movement is more smooth and uniform due to the mechanisms based on magnets. They also determine the level of the load and provide braking.
Electric tracks - pros and cons
+ Advantages:
- Smooth running and maximum convenience in use.
- Built-in mini-computer that counts:
- pulse;
- distance;
- calories;
- There are various training regimes.
- Disadvantages:
- High price. This is the most expensive kind of racetracks.
- Attachment to the source of electricity.
- Costs for electricity.
- Large dimensions and weight.
- A complex device. Higher probability of breakage. Higher repair cost.
- Self-propelled parts = high level of injuries.
Mechanical tracks - pros and cons
+ Advantages:
- Low price.
- Small size. A small mass.
- There is no electricity demand.
- The tempo is set by the user. Training is more natural.
- Simple device. Low probability of breakdowns. Easier to repair.
- Disadvantages:
- Due to the fact that the track is driven by the user, the load rises. This is undesirable for people with aching joints.
- Functionality is minimal.
Advantages and disadvantages of magnetic in comparison with conventional mechanical treadmills
+ Advantages:
- Smoother motion.
- Less noise when the load increases.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher price.
- A slightly more complicated device.
Summing up:
- Electrical - the most convenient and functional, but the most expensive and demanding.
- Normal mechanical - the cheapest and unpretentious. Nothing superfluous - no additional functions and amenities.
- Magnetic mechanical - more convenient and comfortable to use a variety of mechanical tracks, but the price is slightly higher.
