Treadmill safety
Lerning to use a treadmill isn’t all that difficult, but it can take a bit of practice. After a couple of sessions, though, you will find yourself striding out with confidence. The key to keeping your balance initially is to hold onto the handrail, and to set a nice slow starting speed of 0.5mph at most.

Check before you buy it that the treadmill has an emergency shut-off – and make sure you use it. If you don’t, and you lose concentration or co-ordination even for a moment, you can end up with nastily skinned shins or worse. The treadmill should also have a built-in speed and incline limit; gentle, graduated start-up and slow-down speeds to avoid jerking you off-balance; and well-positioned hand rails for both running and walking.

Setting up a home gym
If you are setting up a fitness room or gym at home for the first time, here are a few tips:

1. Decide on your fitness goals. These will help you decide on the type of equipment you need. The three main goals are cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility. A multigym might satisfy all three if you can afford and accommodate it. Also, bear in mind the needs of other users in the family.

2. Test equipment out at the store before bringing it home. If you are buying online, check the returns policy before you buy.

3. Choose the location so that heavy equipment can be stationed permanently without getting in the way of other domestic activities. Set up a music system and possibly TV as well, for entertainment while exercising.

4. As with other consumer items, you usually get what you pay for. Expect to pay more for better quality equipment.

5. Check how quietly the machine runs. A noisy drone will annoy you or have to be drowned out by loud music. Return the equipment if in any doubt and try a different manufacturer or model.

6. Make sure the equipment has a hefty guarantee and that maintenance is straightforward. Check how easy it is to install, that instructions are complete and easy to follow, and that spare parts can be obtained.

7. Take care while assembling the machine at home! The equipment will be heavy. Don't incapacitate yourself before you've had time to try it out...

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