Transforming Your Home Workout: Top Treadmill and Elliptical Maintenance Tips
Home workouts have become increasingly popular, especially with the pandemic limiting access to gyms and other fitness facilities.
Two of the most popular pieces of exercise equipment for home use are treadmills and ellipticals.
These machines are great for getting a cardiovascular workout, but it's important to properly maintain them to ensure they last a long time and perform at their best.
In this article, we will share some top treadmill and elliptical maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your home workout.
Treadmill Maintenance Tips
Keep it Clean:
Dirt and dust can accumulate on your treadmill over time, so it's important to keep it clean. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the machine after each use, paying special attention to the display screen and any crevices where dirt might collect.
Lubricate the Belt:
The belt on your treadmill can become dry and brittle over time, which can cause it to wear out faster. To keep the belt in good condition, lubricate it with a silicone-based lubricant every few months. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific lubrication recommendations.
Check the Belt Tension:
The tension of the belt on your treadmill can affect the machine's performance and longevity. To check the tension, turn off the machine and try to lift the belt.
If it lifts more than 2-3 inches off the deck, the tension may be too loose. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for how to adjust the tension.
Inspect the Power Cord:
The power cord on your treadmill can become damaged over time, which can be a safety hazard. Inspect the cord regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
Keep the Machine in a Cool, Dry Place: Treadmills can be sensitive to temperature and humidity, so it's important to keep them in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing the machine near a window or in a damp basement.
Elliptical Maintenance Tips
Keep it Clean:
Like treadmills, ellipticals can accumulate dirt and dust over time, so it's important to clean the machine after each use.
Use a soft cloth to wipe down the machine, paying special attention to the pedals and any crevices where dirt might collect.
Tighten Loose Bolts:
Over time, the bolts on your elliptical can become loose, which can affect the machine's performance and safety. Check the bolts regularly and tighten them as necessary.
Lubricate the Pedals:
The pedals on your elliptical can become squeaky or stiff over time, which can make the machine harder to use.
To keep the pedals in good condition, lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant every few months. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific lubrication recommendations.
Check the Resistance:
The resistance on your elliptical can affect the intensity of your workout, so it's important to check it regularly.
If the resistance feels weak or inconsistent, consult the manufacturer's instructions for how to adjust it.
Inspect the Power Cord:
Like treadmills, the power cord on your elliptical can become damaged over time. Inspect the cord regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
In addition to these maintenance tips, here are a few other things to keep in mind:
Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance recommendations and safety guidelines.
Use the Equipment as Intended:
Treadmills and ellipticals are designed for specific types of use, so it's important to use them as intended. For example, don't use your elliptical for jumping exercises or your treadmill for weightlifting.
Don't Overuse the Machine.