How Long do Treadmills Last? Here’s The Lifespan To Expect From Your Treadmill

Many runners find themselves in a love-hate relationship with the treadmill. Just how long should a treadmill last the average runner? The answer is woven into a complex love-hate relationship that most runners have with “dreadmill” running.

Why bother with a treadmill?

Treadmill running allows for running when the weather outside doesn’t have the same training plan as you. Wind, rain, sleet, heat, or snow can put a huge damper in anyone’s training routine.

If you have a small child and can’t find a sitter, that’s another obstacle in the way of outdoor training.

Treadmill running can allow any runner to stay on track when it comes to unexpected training obstacles.

If one can get past the boredom, the treadmill is the ultimate safety net of aggressive training plans. While it may be cumbersome to complete long training runs on a treadmill, it sometimes is the only option.

One may wonder if purchasing a treadmill for guaranteed training is worth it? If you examine the cost and associated life span of a treadmill, you may have your answer.

As with any type of machinery, usage and maintenance will affect the lifespan of the machine. If you do a little research, you can establish realistic expectations for the lifespan of the machine.

Things to consider before investing in a treadmill?

  • What size do you want?
  • Do you want a machine that is tech smart?
    • Wifi
    • Tv
    • iphone/ipod compatible
  • Are the controls user-friendly?
  • Does it come with a warranty?
  • Are there extended warranty options?
  • Is there a return policy?

The boredom of running on a treadmill is enough for any runner to ask themselves why they should care how long a treadmill should last. The answer is simply that there are times you just can’t run outside and the treadmill is the easiest solution.

Treadmills are now equipped with many bells and whistles. Most of these fancy accessories are just diversions. You can find treadmills that will basically do everything but the actual run for you.

It is almost common practice for treadmills to come equipped with television and wifi capabilities. These features can be great, but you must consider these options will also need maintenance.

If your diversional accessory breaks and is a crutch to help you cope with the monotony of the treadmill, it could significantly affect the tolerance you have for the treadmill.

The average lifespan of a treadmill seems to be anywhere from 7-12 years. Proper care and regular maintenance is crucial to a long and happy treadmill life.

There isn’t a simple answer as to how long a treadmill will last. Many factors will determine the longevity of your equipment.

Research and try out different brands before you buy. Go to the store and run on it! Ask questions.

The bottom line is that for those who must train rain or shine, a treadmill may be priceless. Getting the most bang for your buck is going to require some research and hands-on (or feet) testing.

The ability to complete training independent of uncontrollable external conditions may be worth the cost. It can help give peace of mind to any goal-oriented runner…no matter how long the treadmill may last.