subject: Shock Absorbing Treadmills Save Wear And Tear On Joints [print this page] Aging baby-boomers looking for joint-friendly fitness can rejoice. Today's shock absorbing treadmills can reduce foot strike impact up to 38% more than other treadmills, and even more when compared to walking or running outdoors.
While regular exercise is a must for good health (and for slowing down the ravages of aging, and weight control, and for feeling better in general), the reality is that it can often leave you with painful joints. Fortunately, a good shock absorbing treadmill can greatly reduce the impact from foot strike, and allow you to enjoy this most natural of movements.
Treadmills remain one of the most popular forms of indoor exercise. Users like their versatility - you can walk, jog, run, incline walk or run, do intervals, etc. And, there is virtually no learning curve since walking or running is one of the most natural human movements. Yet many people with painful joints who experience pain when walking outdoors assume they will have the same issues on a treadmill.
The reality is that shock absorbing treadmills are much easier on joints than walking outdoors. Most of today's better treadmills feature a variable density deck. This, in itself, provides a more forgiving surface than concrete or asphalt. In addition, under the deck there will usually be a series of rubber or urethane-type bumpers, generally positioned in a way that delivers more "give" at the point of foot strike, and more firmness toward the back where the foot pushes off (too much "give" in this area could create fatigue or even shin splints).
This combination delivers the best of both worlds -- a softer, shock absorbing area where you need it most (at the point of heel strike impact), and a firmer, more stable area in the back so you can push off without fatiguing yourself or getting shin splints. Some manufacturers even claim "proportional" impact reduction, meaning their system works the same for a 120 lb user as it does for a 250 lb user. This same manufacturer claims up to a 38% reduction in foot strike impact.
Some of the best shock absorbing treadmills augment the above listed features with an orthopedic belt. Orthopedic walk/run belts are significantly thicker (and softer) than regular belts and they provide even more protection for weary joints. Be careful here, though. Orthopedic belts can put more stress on the drive roller and the roller bearings, so be sure that you only consider orthopedic belts from a very proven treadmill manufacturer.
A reliable, proven, high-end manufacturer will have done the research necessary to ensure that all of the components of the drive system (drive motor, drive roller, rear roller, deck surface, and belt backing materials) work together as an integrated system in a way that does not increase drag or compromise durability. Finally, there are even a handful of premium treadmills that offer an adjustable cushioning system. This advanced engineering solution allows the user to choose their desired level of firmness or softness.
So, if you enjoy walking (or running) but thought you had to give it up due to painful joints, don't despair. Today's crop of shock absorbing treadmills may provide you with a safe and enjoyable alternative.
