The treadmill is a widely used piece of exercise equipment that continues to evolve. It was first invented in the 19th century as an alternative to outdoor running. Since then, it has undergone many changes to become the modern machine we know today. Continue reading and learn the details surrounding the evolution and development of the treadmill.
The Original Treadmill
Although TRUE Fitness developed the modern treadmill in the 20th century, a version of it dates back to ancient times. However, during this period, treadmill-like tools didn’t serve as workout equipment. Instead, civilizations—including the ancient Romans and Greeks—used them as constructive tools for tasks, such as grinding grain and pumping water.
In the early 1800s, an engineer named William Cubitt invented a treadmill that punished prisoners. The design consisted of a large wheel with steps attached to its rim, and prisoners walked on it for hours as hard labor that also powered machinery.
Bonus Fact
Early civilizations also used animals, such as horses or oxen, to power the treadmill for labor-intensive tasks.
Early Treadmills
By the 1900s, society progressed in many ways. Using the treadmill to power machines as a form of punishment became a banned process. Instead, societies used the machine for more beneficial, health-conscious reasons.
The invention of early treadmills began in 1911 when Claude Lauraine Hagen filed a patent for an “electrically operated training machine.” The treadmill gained power from a motor, and it featured three speeds. While this was an innovative development, the design could not adjust incline levels or track distance.
In the 1920s, more people began seeing exercise as a means of improving their physical well-being, leading to the development of fitness-focused treadmills. These treadmills included wooden slats along the belt which rotated as the user walked, providing a more realistic walking experience.
Treadmills for Medical Use
In 1952, cardiologist Robert Bruce and his team developed the first treadmill for medical and scientific use. The treadmill stress test measured a person’s cardiovascular health by having them run on the machine while connected to electrodes. exerted energyed
This marked the beginning of treadmills as a means to benefit the health of human bodies.
Treadmills for At-Home Use
In 1968, William Staub—an engineer from Seattle, Washington—invented the first at-home treadmill called the Pacemaster 100. It featured adjustable speeds, incline levels, and a heart rate monitor. This revolutionized how people viewed treadmills.
Staub’s invention stood out because it was the first treadmill created for at-home use. This gave more people access to this piece of equipment, so they could walk or run at any time.
Continuous Evolution of Treadmills
The treadmill’s design continued to evolve throughout the 1980s and 1990s. As technology advanced, engineers could increase the speed options of this fitness tool.
Treadmills gaining popularity also increased the demand for easy operation. By 1991, the first treadmills with shock-absorbent systems appeared to enhance comfort for users by reducing the impact on joints. Additionally, treadmills began featuring more advanced consoles with detailed workout programs and even music players.
Today’s Treadmills
The evolution and development of the treadmill endured numerous shifts in its purpose and style. Today, each treadmill design serves a unique purpose. Some focus on endurance training, while others feature incline options to simulate outdoor terrains such as hills and mountains.
Thanks to modern advancements, you can also track your heart rate and distance traveled, set up workout programs, and connect to fitness apps for a comprehensive workout experience. You can also use Bluetooth to connect a phone or tablet to the treadmill for entertainment while exercising.
Types of Modern Treadmills
Several types of modern treadmills cater to different fitness needs and preferences. As you shop, consider which type of treadmill best aligns with your workout preferences:
Slat Treadmill
Many runners prefer a slat treadmill because it features slats on the belt that create a smoother, more realistic feel.
Pro Tip
TRUE Fitness’s STRYKER Slat Treadmill is a low-maintenance piece of equipment that features an LED console, so you track and optimize your workouts.
Motorized Treadmill
Motorized treadmills are among the most common in homes and workout facilities. The motorized belt allows for different speeds and incline levels, making it versatile for users to implement various workout styles.
Manual Treadmill
As the name suggests, a manual treadmill does not include a motor and requires manual movement. It’s ideal for those who want a more challenging workout. Plus, you can fold it up for easy storage.
Reasons To Invest In a Treadmill
A treadmill is essential for commercial and at-home gyms because it provides a tool for high-intensity or low-intensity workouts. Regardless of the weather or time of day, treadmills are a safe and convenient exercise option.
Including this accessible and versatile piece of exercise equipment can help improve cardiovascular health, burn calories, and build endurance. Let’s dive deeper into the
reasons why investing in a treadmill is beneficial:
Convenience and Accessibility
Flexible exercise equipment is a game-changer. Having a treadmill at home means you can conveniently access it anytime. This allows you to easily incorporate it into your daily routine and stay consistent with your workouts even when the weather is unfavorable for outdoor running.
People living in apartments or homes with limited square footage can enjoy the perks of treadmills because of their compact size. Not to mention, with a treadmill at home, you don’t have to commute to the gym or pay for a membership.
Variety of Workout Programs
Modern treadmills have various workout programs that cater to different fitness levels and goals. These programs help people structure their workouts, track progress, and regularly challenge individuals with new routines. With the ability to adjust the speed, incline level, and workout style, people can add diversity to their exercise routines.
Cushioned Terrain for Running or Walking
Although many runners enjoy exercising outside, it’s not always ideal. Poor weather can throw off your workout plan. Likewise, running on concrete or asphalt surfaces may strain your joints.
Luckily, treadmills offer a cushioned surface that reduces the impact of running, making them safer for long-term use. For a more challenging workout, treadmills allow you to adjust incline levels to simulate different terrains without putting additional strain on your body.
Contact TRUE Fitness
TRUE Fitness is a workout equipment company that sells various treadmills and other workout machines for commercial and at-home use. Contact our team to learn more about our products and find the right treadmill based on your fitness goals.