09/05/2008 Treadmill Centre, 14A Barnstaple Street, South Molton T:01769 572766, E: info@treadmillcentre.co.uk
We have 5 years experience in running machine supply and
repair and are here to give help and advice.
Gym Motion 7000XL, £399.99
, 22.0 Kph, 20 Incline, 180Kg Rated - SAVE
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Q: Why does my treadmill belt run towards one side?
A: The Tracking on the machine needs adjusting. Most machines have two adjusting screws on the rear of the treadmill in the casing. The screws adjust the position of the idler roller bearings, one on each side of the machine. By adjusting these screws one can tension or loosen each side of the belt.
For example: If Belt is tracking to the right of the machine.
Either tighten, (turn clockwise) the right hand screw or loosen, (turn anticlockwise) left hand screw. Alternatively a combination of both may be required to achieve correct belt tension.
03/07/2007
Q: Why does my treadmill belt run towards one side?
A: The Tracking on the machine needs adjusting. Most machines have two adjusting screws on the rear of the treadmill in the casing. The screws adjust the position of the idler roller bearings, one on each side of the machine. By adjusting these screws one can tension or loosen each side of the belt.
For example: If Belt is tracking to the right of the machine.
Either tighten, (turn clockwise) the right hand screw or loosen, (turn anticlockwise) left hand screw. Alternatively a combination of both may be required to achieve correct belt tension.
03/07/2007
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Q: What does HP or horsepower rating mean?
A: The horsepower of the machine is the power, (or capacity to do work) of the main drive motor. This may be expressed as continuous HP rating or Peak Hp Rating. Peak Hp Rating is the workload the motor can produce for a short period of time. Continuous HP is the work the motor can deliver for a prolonged, indefinite or extended period. Typically a peak horsepower rating will be double that of the continuous rating on a given motor.
03/07/2007
Q: What does HP or horsepower rating mean?
A: The horsepower of the machine is the power, (or capacity to do work) of the main drive motor. This may be expressed as continuous HP rating or Peak Hp Rating. Peak Hp Rating is the workload the motor can produce for a short period of time. Continuous HP is the work the motor can deliver for a prolonged, indefinite or extended period. Typically a peak horsepower rating will be double that of the continuous rating on a given motor.
03/07/2007
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Q: Why should I be interested in the Hp of the treadmill?
A: A manufacturer will often invest in a low power motor in a low quality machine and use larger more powerful and robust motor in its more expensive machines. A machine with a more powerful drive will generally be capable of accelerating faster and will be more tolerant to higher speeds, user weight and general abuse. Larger motors will typically have a longer life as they are under less ‘stress’.
03/07/2007
Q: Why should I be interested in the Hp of the treadmill?
A: A manufacturer will often invest in a low power motor in a low quality machine and use larger more powerful and robust motor in its more expensive machines. A machine with a more powerful drive will generally be capable of accelerating faster and will be more tolerant to higher speeds, user weight and general abuse. Larger motors will typically have a longer life as they are under less ‘stress’.
03/07/2007
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Q: What is Incline/auto incline?
A: Some machines are fitted with an incline function. This allows the user to walk or run uphill, (even downhill on some models). Walking uphill allows the user to increase their workload without having to run. A manual incline machine will have to be set up by the user before using the machine to obtain the angle at which to run at. An auto incline machine has a drive motor for this task. Effectively the user can then adjust the angle as they run or walk on the machine. In our experience this function is often the first to fail on low quality domestic machines.
03/07/2007
Q: What is Incline/auto incline?
A: Some machines are fitted with an incline function. This allows the user to walk or run uphill, (even downhill on some models). Walking uphill allows the user to increase their workload without having to run. A manual incline machine will have to be set up by the user before using the machine to obtain the angle at which to run at. An auto incline machine has a drive motor for this task. Effectively the user can then adjust the angle as they run or walk on the machine. In our experience this function is often the first to fail on low quality domestic machines.
03/07/2007
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Q: What routine maintenance will my machine require?
A: The main maintenance a treadmill requires is the lubrication of the running board. Some machines are fitted with an autolube mechanism, (which often proves ineffective or fails).
Most machines need to be lubricated by hand by applying the correct lubricant, (available from ourselves) in under the belt. It is best to apply the oil to the front of the board trying to spread across the width of the board. The belt will then spread the oil back across the rest of the board. Special dispensers are available for this with a long drenching tube to insert in under the belt. Failure to maintain sufficient lubrication will result in reduced board/belt life, increased motor/drive wear and general degradation, (shorter life) of the machine. The boards have a special coating to reduce friction with the belt, reduced oil will deteriorate the coating and may require the board to be replaced, (or inverted if applicable).
Dependent on the type of autoincline this mechanism, (especially wormdrives) will need lubrication with heavy grease.
Running belt and drive belts will need tensioning from time to time.
Some machines have integral cooling fans with air filters. These filters will need inspecting, cleaning/replacing on occasion.
Generally the machine should be visually inspected for damage or wear on a regular basis. Also listen to the machine for unusual noises.
03/07/2007
Q: What routine maintenance will my machine require?
A: The main maintenance a treadmill requires is the lubrication of the running board. Some machines are fitted with an autolube mechanism, (which often proves ineffective or fails).
Most machines need to be lubricated by hand by applying the correct lubricant, (available from ourselves) in under the belt. It is best to apply the oil to the front of the board trying to spread across the width of the board. The belt will then spread the oil back across the rest of the board. Special dispensers are available for this with a long drenching tube to insert in under the belt. Failure to maintain sufficient lubrication will result in reduced board/belt life, increased motor/drive wear and general degradation, (shorter life) of the machine. The boards have a special coating to reduce friction with the belt, reduced oil will deteriorate the coating and may require the board to be replaced, (or inverted if applicable).
Dependent on the type of autoincline this mechanism, (especially wormdrives) will need lubrication with heavy grease.
Running belt and drive belts will need tensioning from time to time.
Some machines have integral cooling fans with air filters. These filters will need inspecting, cleaning/replacing on occasion.
Generally the machine should be visually inspected for damage or wear on a regular basis. Also listen to the machine for unusual noises.
03/07/2007
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Q: Why does my machine judder/slip when I increase speed on it?
A: Generally this is caused by the large amount of friction produced by the user's foot hitting the belt. The friction is between the belt and the board and will momentarily cause the belt to stop moving. As the initial reaction with the board diminishes the belt will then slip from the board and once again be driven by the drive roller. This causes an awkward uncomfortable sensation and it will be almost impossible to run on the treadmill. There are various reasons why this may be happening. Firstly ensure that the treadmill board has been lubricated to minimise friction between belt and board. Secondly ensure that both the running belt and drive belt, (between motor and running belt roller) are tightened sufficiently. There should be an adjustment for the drive belt either in the front of the machine or under the main motor cover, (ensure machine is electrically isolated before removing). The running belt tension is adjusted in the same manner as the tracking, (see section above). If the machine still refuses to allow the user to run then check the rating of the machine, (maximum user weight). If the treadmill is suitable for the given user there may be a motor/drive fault.
03/07/2007
Q: Why does my machine judder/slip when I increase speed on it?
A: Generally this is caused by the large amount of friction produced by the user's foot hitting the belt. The friction is between the belt and the board and will momentarily cause the belt to stop moving. As the initial reaction with the board diminishes the belt will then slip from the board and once again be driven by the drive roller. This causes an awkward uncomfortable sensation and it will be almost impossible to run on the treadmill. There are various reasons why this may be happening. Firstly ensure that the treadmill board has been lubricated to minimise friction between belt and board. Secondly ensure that both the running belt and drive belt, (between motor and running belt roller) are tightened sufficiently. There should be an adjustment for the drive belt either in the front of the machine or under the main motor cover, (ensure machine is electrically isolated before removing). The running belt tension is adjusted in the same manner as the tracking, (see section above). If the machine still refuses to allow the user to run then check the rating of the machine, (maximum user weight). If the treadmill is suitable for the given user there may be a motor/drive fault.
03/07/2007
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Q: Can I start my treadmill whilst standing on the belt?
A: Commercial machines generally have sufficient starting torque to overcome the static resistance of someone standing on the belt. However for domestic machines this may not be the case and the high starting load caused by this may overload the motor. In all cases we recommend the user straddle the board prior to starting the machine. Once the belt has started moving then step onto the machine and begin exercise.
03/07/2007
Q: Can I start my treadmill whilst standing on the belt?
A: Commercial machines generally have sufficient starting torque to overcome the static resistance of someone standing on the belt. However for domestic machines this may not be the case and the high starting load caused by this may overload the motor. In all cases we recommend the user straddle the board prior to starting the machine. Once the belt has started moving then step onto the machine and begin exercise.
03/07/2007
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Q: What is the difference between Commercial and Domestic grade Machines?
A: Commercial Machines are designed and built for large volume use. The commercial machines are heavier duty in every way to domestic machines and are built to last several thousand man-hours usage. Spares are readily available for these machines, however a properly maintained machine will rarely need any. Some home users elect to purchase a commercial grade machine as they value the quality and robustness of the machines they have become familiar to in a gym. Typical new prices £2000 - £8000.
Domestic machines tend to be lighter weight, more manoeuvrable, (frequently foldable) and often arrive in box format for home assembly, (typically taking 20 minutes). The machines often have the same performance as their commercial counterparts but generally have smaller motors/drives and are less robust. Spares are hard to come by for these machines as often the frequency of use results in the machine becoming obsolete before spares are required. Repair labour costs may render it more cost effective to replace rather than repair. Typical machine costs £200 - £2000.
03/07/2007
Q: What is the difference between Commercial and Domestic grade Machines?
A: Commercial Machines are designed and built for large volume use. The commercial machines are heavier duty in every way to domestic machines and are built to last several thousand man-hours usage. Spares are readily available for these machines, however a properly maintained machine will rarely need any. Some home users elect to purchase a commercial grade machine as they value the quality and robustness of the machines they have become familiar to in a gym. Typical new prices £2000 - £8000.
Domestic machines tend to be lighter weight, more manoeuvrable, (frequently foldable) and often arrive in box format for home assembly, (typically taking 20 minutes). The machines often have the same performance as their commercial counterparts but generally have smaller motors/drives and are less robust. Spares are hard to come by for these machines as often the frequency of use results in the machine becoming obsolete before spares are required. Repair labour costs may render it more cost effective to replace rather than repair. Typical machine costs £200 - £2000.
03/07/2007
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Q: I have seen some treadmills without motors, how do these work?
A: There are some very cheap machines available which have no motor. These machines rely on the user to hold a handle and push the belt back with their feet. We do not recommend these machines in any way. They do not replicate a walking or running motion and are sure to leave the purchaser dissatisfied.
03/07/2007
Q: I have seen some treadmills without motors, how do these work?
A: There are some very cheap machines available which have no motor. These machines rely on the user to hold a handle and push the belt back with their feet. We do not recommend these machines in any way. They do not replicate a walking or running motion and are sure to leave the purchaser dissatisfied.
03/07/2007
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Q: Which machine is right for me?
A: This all depends on an individuals circumstances. Cost tends to be the biggest influence on individual choice but the main parameters one should consider are:
Is the machine to be used by an individual, several users or a gym?
What user weight do you need a machine to cater for?
Are you going to run or walk on the machine?
What maximum speed are you likely to run at on a machine?
Do you require an incline function on the machine?
Are you going to have to move the machine?
Where is the machine going to be sited?
Do you require a lot of user programmes?
03/07/2007
Q: Which machine is right for me?
A: This all depends on an individuals circumstances. Cost tends to be the biggest influence on individual choice but the main parameters one should consider are:
Is the machine to be used by an individual, several users or a gym?
What user weight do you need a machine to cater for?
Are you going to run or walk on the machine?
What maximum speed are you likely to run at on a machine?
Do you require an incline function on the machine?
Are you going to have to move the machine?
Where is the machine going to be sited?
Do you require a lot of user programmes?
03/07/2007
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Q: Where should I locate the treadmill?
A: The treadmill should be located on as flat a surface as possible and levelled using a spirit level, (some machines have adjustable feet for this purpose). The surface should also ideally be of a hard material, i.e. floorboards, concrete etc rather than carpet. The treadmill should only be located on the ground floor unless upper levels have special/heavy duty construction.
03/07/2007
Q: Where should I locate the treadmill?
A: The treadmill should be located on as flat a surface as possible and levelled using a spirit level, (some machines have adjustable feet for this purpose). The surface should also ideally be of a hard material, i.e. floorboards, concrete etc rather than carpet. The treadmill should only be located on the ground floor unless upper levels have special/heavy duty construction.
03/07/2007
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Q: What muscles does the Treadmill work?
A: The treadmill works a number of muscles, being the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, hip flexors, gastrocnemius, soleus and tibialis anterior. Walking/running is excellent cardiovascular exercise.
03/07/2007
Q: What muscles does the Treadmill work?
A: The treadmill works a number of muscles, being the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, hip flexors, gastrocnemius, soleus and tibialis anterior. Walking/running is excellent cardiovascular exercise.
03/07/2007
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Q: What are Heart Rate Monitors?
A: These are devices that the machine may be fitted with which displays the users heart rate. More advance machines use this information in a negative feedback loop to control the intensity of the workout. There are a few different types of HRM:
Hand Grips.
Clip Sensor.
HRM chest strap, (transmits heart rate to machine).
03/07/2007
Q: What are Heart Rate Monitors?
A: These are devices that the machine may be fitted with which displays the users heart rate. More advance machines use this information in a negative feedback loop to control the intensity of the workout. There are a few different types of HRM:
Hand Grips.
Clip Sensor.
HRM chest strap, (transmits heart rate to machine).
03/07/2007
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Q: Are there any groups in particular who should avoid running on a treadmill?
A: Treadmill running is not generally an appropriate activity for any individuals where high-impact will cause a problem, such as obese clients, or those with joint problems.
03/07/2007
Q: Are there any groups in particular who should avoid running on a treadmill?
A: Treadmill running is not generally an appropriate activity for any individuals where high-impact will cause a problem, such as obese clients, or those with joint problems.
03/07/2007
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Q: Are there any groups in particular who would find it more suitable walking on a treadmill?
A: Walking on a treadmill is particularly appropriate for the following clients
- Low fitness
- Overweight and obese clients
- Ante and post-natal women
- Older adults
- Those with medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
All of these should consult their doctor before exercising.
03/07/2007
Q: Are there any groups in particular who would find it more suitable walking on a treadmill?
A: Walking on a treadmill is particularly appropriate for the following clients
- Low fitness
- Overweight and obese clients
- Ante and post-natal women
- Older adults
- Those with medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
All of these should consult their doctor before exercising.
03/07/2007
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Q: Is using a treadmill better for you than road running?
A: Some machine are fitted with shock absorption systems. This decreases the impact of the foot with the belt creating a ‘softer’ feeling. Some people believe this is beneficial to the bones/joints.
03/07/2007
Q: Is using a treadmill better for you than road running?
A: Some machine are fitted with shock absorption systems. This decreases the impact of the foot with the belt creating a ‘softer’ feeling. Some people believe this is beneficial to the bones/joints.
03/07/2007
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Q: What does AC or DC Motor mean?
A: AC and DC referes to the type of Motor / Dive. AC is alternating current, (i.e mains electric) DC is direct Current, (i.e. vehicles). Originally devices requiring a variable speed motor utilised a DC Motor and electronics.
As drive technology evolved AC Motors were utilised for these applications. Modern AC Drives have become far less expensive and offer a host of control and feedback parameters to improve motor performance, reliability, protection and control. Over the last few years Servo and Vector units have been developed which are frequently utilised in industrial control applications.
Generally domestic grade treadmills utilise DC motors as these do not require Inverters which represent additional cost. Commercial treadmills frequently have AC motors driven by industrial inverters. It is often the case that a machine driven by an AC drive will not require such a large motor as a DC machine.
17/07/2007
Q: What does AC or DC Motor mean?
A: AC and DC referes to the type of Motor / Dive. AC is alternating current, (i.e mains electric) DC is direct Current, (i.e. vehicles). Originally devices requiring a variable speed motor utilised a DC Motor and electronics.
As drive technology evolved AC Motors were utilised for these applications. Modern AC Drives have become far less expensive and offer a host of control and feedback parameters to improve motor performance, reliability, protection and control. Over the last few years Servo and Vector units have been developed which are frequently utilised in industrial control applications.
Generally domestic grade treadmills utilise DC motors as these do not require Inverters which represent additional cost. Commercial treadmills frequently have AC motors driven by industrial inverters. It is often the case that a machine driven by an AC drive will not require such a large motor as a DC machine.
17/07/2007