A treadmill is a great way to battle the holiday bulge. But shopping for one could be daunting—until now. Prevention's editors have done the detective work for you!

We tested bestselling brands in a reasonable price range of $800 to $1,500. Here are four favorites we rated. We're happy to report that you can get a great treadmill for less than $1,000!



Smooth 5.0
Price: $1,000

Why We Loved It
Controls are on the arm handles.
Narrow belt is easy to straddle.
It's a great starter treadmill: simple, sturdy, and priced low.
Control panel is clear, simple, and easy to use.
It folds up to save space.
Drawbacks
The walking belt felt too short to some testers.
"Having the speed and incline controls on the arm rails made adjustments very safe and easy." -Maggie Spilner, walking editor
Company Info: Visit Smooth or call them toll-free at (888) 211-1611.



ProForm 995SEL
Price: $800
Why We Loved ItControl panel is basic, simple, and easy to use.
Heart rate monitor is easier to use than on other treadmills.
Super price!
Folding base saves space.
Drawbacks
Not much incline ability.
"This treadmill was a wonderful surprise. It's the least expensive of our test group, but a high-quality machine!" -Toby Hanlon, women's health editor
Company Info: Visit Proform or call them at (800) 201-2991.

Smooth 9.1P
Price: $1,500
Why We Loved ItIt feels very sturdy.
Runners and walkers can use it.
Incline and speed have smooth transitions.
Drawbacks
Doesn't fold up.
Confusing control panel.
"I need a treadmill that's tough, because I'll be sharing it with my 6-foot-tall husband who runs. This one doesn't fold up, but it's worth giving up a bit of space, because it can take regular pounding."
-Marianne McGinnis, assistant editor
Company Info: Visit Smooth or call them toll-free at (888) 211-1611.

HealthRider T90
Price: $1,300

Why We Loved It
The give and rebound of the walking bed felt comfy on problem knees.
Lightweight bed makes folding really easy.
You can watch your favorite show on the built-in TV.
It has lots of walk/run space.
Drawbacks
Springiness of the walking belt felt too bouncy to some testers.
Program selection was confusing to many.
The large size means this machine takes up a lot of space.
"The give of the walking belt on this treadmill felt wonderful on my often achy knees." -Jaime Pumphrey, assistant editor
Company Info: Visit Healthrider or call them at (800) 201-3254.


Choosing Your Treadmill
Do your own research. Most brands have their own Web sites; get to know what's offered for warranties and repairs.

Test it out. Wear workout clothes and shoes to the store, and spend at least 5 to 10 minutes on each treadmill.

Ask yourself: Do I feel stable and safe? Are the handrails sturdy? Is it easy to use? Will it fit in my home? Is the motor too noisy? (This is important if you plan to watch TV.)

Skip This Accessory
Several treadmills we tested came with hand weights for use during your workout. "Keep your strength training separate from your walking," recommends Prevention's fitness advisor, Wayne Westcott, PhD. "The risk of injury outweighs any benefits you might get."

10 Tips to Keep You Walking
For easy morning workouts, do this before you go to bed:

Unfold your treadmill (if you keep it folded).

Hang your workout clothes on the arm rails; set your shoes on the belt.

Have your favorite CD ready to play.

Fill your water bottle.

Preset your coffeemaker for a postwalk treat.

If you exercise after work:

Prepare as above, so you're ready to go when you walk in the door.

Pop a casserole in the oven, and walk while it cooks.

Walk during the evening news.

At all times:

Try audio books if you can't read while you walk.

Make your treading environment beautiful by placing plants and artwork nearby, or face a window.