On The Internet! Take the Self Improvement Tour
Fred Waters
Fred Waters Quick Facts
I worked for a number of years as the head of marketing for Smooth Fitness. They are a leading online seller of treadmill and elliptical trainers. I learned a great deal about the fitness industry and how products are manufacturered and marketed.
When I left I developed a couple of web sites devoted to helping consumer purchase the right exercise equipment for their fitness goals. Both are now popular resources for reviews and ratings.
Buying a treadmill or an elliptical trainer can be very confusing. Prices range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. The goal is to find a machine that will accommodate your needs and still be within your budget. On one hand you don't want a fitness machine that is a toy, on the other hand you don't need one that is commercial grade.
My reviews and insight are from personally testing equipment and feedback from customers and industry professionals. It is rewarding helping people get on the right track to health and fitness.
Regards,
Fred
Favorite Quotes & Thoughts from Fred Waters
When buying fitness equipment be an educated consumer. Don't get caught up in the hype. Shop wisely by testing and comparing products. Use the power of the Internet to check out reviews from both customers and professionals.
A treadmill or elliptical trainer can be an expensive investment. Use common sense. For example, regardless of what the manufacturer states a $500 treadmill is not going to accommodate a 300 lb. indivdiual. And that same treadmill is not going to hold up under extensive use.
Getting Started With Fred Waters
If you are in the market for a treadmill or elliptical trainer you need to consider the following:
- What are your fitness goals? (weight loss, toning, cardio training)
- For treadmills, will you use it for walking, jogging or running?
- How many people will use the equipment and how many hours per week will it be in service?
- How many pre-installed motivational programs do you require?
- Do you want wireless heart rate control?
- How tall or heavy are the users? Tall individuals need treadmills with long belts and elliptical trainers will long strides. Heavy users need machine that can withstand the additional impact and strain.
When considering a treadmill or elliptical trainer you want to consider the following:
- The company reputation for not only quality control, but equally important, customer service.
- The length of the warranty. The warranty is often a reflection on the quality of the equipment.
- Customer reviews. You can find reviews on my sites, and also epionions.com, Amazon and many of the retailers that sell fitness equipment.
I also recommend you go out and test some machines. In particular, go to fitness equipment specialty stores. The salespeople are usually very informed, although they also work on commission and will push their products.
Consider buying online. Often you can get discounts and avoid paying state sales tax.
Most important when buying a treadmill or elliptical trainer - Use It!. From my experience you won't burn any calories when your exercise machine becomes a clothes hangar.
Contacting Fred Waters
If you have any questions regarding purchasing a treadmill or elliptical trainer you can email me at fredwat@earthlink.net. I try to answer all your inquiries promptly.
Regards,
Fred Waters
