The treadmill is a great piece of equipment for cardio-vascular exercise and are one of the most popular pieces of exercise equipment to buy. They have eclipsed rowing machines and other in-house exercise equipment as the preferred serious equipment for those passionate about their fitness. Why is this? The following facts explain why treadmills remain the most popular choice for thousands of fitness enthusiasts. Quite simply a treadmill offers more fitness benefits than any other piece of fitness equipment.

Treadmills come in various shapes and sizes with widely varying functions and features, these include LCD display, built-in programs and games, automatic incline, workout programmes and heart-rate monitor.

Below are some of the fitness benefits a treadmill can provide, alongside some interesting facts to bare in mind when shopping for your treadmill:

* the treadmill is the UK’s most popular piece of cardio-vascular equipment treadmills are proven to burn fat, increase weight loss and contribute to improved fitness

* they don’t take up too much space compared to a home-gym

* a great deal cheaper than annual gym membership!

* the running platform is a great deal easier on joints than running on firm ground or pavement

* running and walking has been proven as the most effective activity to firm below the waist

* interactive workouts are provided to build an interest element into exercise session

* can help to build reserves of energy and stamina

* protection from the outside elements, running in the rain can dampen motivation!

* quick and effective workout with little preparation

* no special skills or training required

* exercise can be shared as activity with family and friends

* treadmills hold their resale value very well

* avoid running in front of others!

The list of benefits could be far longer – this all points to a treadmill being a great purchase for those enthusiastic about improving their fitness.