Definition of Terms
Belt
The moving surface on a treadmill that goes around a series of rollers. Also called tread.
Caliper Brake Resistance
Resistance created by a system of brake calipers regulated by a resistance control knob usually located on or near the handlebars.
Constant Power Mode
A feature on some Schwinn™ models that allows you to work at a set level of intensity regardless of your pedaling RPM. This means if the user pedals faster or slower the computer will automatically adjust the resistance accordingly.
Continuous-Duty Horsepower (CD)
The continuous power that a treadmill motor can reach and maintain under any load or no-load condition. This rating, which is the most powerful rating listed, is important to ensure concise, steady-state running. Other kinds of treadmill motor ratings are: treadmill horsepower rating and peak duty horsepower rating.
Courses
Used in electronic computer controlled equipment to vary the workout speed, resistance, incline, etc. to offer the user a more challenging and variable workout. Also known as programs or pre-sets.
CrossRamp
A term used by Precor® for the ramp on its elliptical crosstrainers. It lets the user vary the angle of the elliptical stride with the touch of a key, so that the user can target different muscle groups during the workout.
Crosstrainer
Another name for elliptical crosstrainers. A machine similar to steppers, but instead of moving your feet up and down, feet actually move in an elliptical motion. This eliminates the high impact on joints. Varying the incline can mimic skiing, hiking, climbing or cycling.
Deck
The surface on a treadmill underneath the belt that the user runs on. Usually cushioned to absorb the shock of the user’s foot when it strikes the surface.
Dependent Motion
A type of stepper or climber where the steps themselves are linked so that when the user pushes down on one step, the other step goes up.
EFX
A term used by Precor for their line of elliptical crosstrainers. A machine similar to steppers, but instead of moving your feet up and down, feet actually move in an elliptical motion. This eliminates the high impact on joints. Varying the incline can mimic skiing, hiking, climbing or cycling.
Electromagnetic Resistance
Resistance created by a series of magnets. An electronic mechanism tells the magnets to apply more or less resistance to the flywheel. Resistance is controlled by a magnetic field, so changes are smooth.
Elevation
Feature usually found on a treadmill or elliptical crosstrainer. It is the angle of the treadmill deck or elliptical ramp used to simulate walking or running uphill. Also known as incline.
Elliptical Crosstrainer
A machine similar to steppers, but instead of moving your feet up and down, feet actually move in an elliptical motion. This eliminates the high impact on joints. Varying the incline can mimic skiing, hiking, climbing or cycling.
Fabric Band Brake Resistance
Resistance created by a nylon strap that tightens and loosens around a weighted flywheel.
Fold-Up Model
A treadmill that has the ability to be folded up and rolled away to save space.
Ground Effects Impact Control System
A feature on all Precor treadmills which is a specially formulated suspension under the treadmill bed that cushions the impact of every foot strike and controls lateral motion.
Heart Rate Control (HRC)
A feature on some cardiovascular fitness equipment in which the user puts on a heart rate monitor and the console relays to the user what his or her heart rate is during the workout.
Incline
Feature usually found on a treadmill or elliptical crosstrainer. It is the angle of the treadmill deck or elliptical ramp used to simulate walking or running uphill. Also known as elevation. Independent Motion
A type of stepper or climber where the steps are not linked together, and move independently of each other.
Integrated Footplant Technology
A feature on all Precor treadmills which is a microprocessor-regulated motor control system that continuously adjusts speed to enhance safety and comfort. Although the user’s body remains in constant motion while running, the feet do not- they slow briefly during each footplant. This technology replicates normal, slight speed variations to preserve natural, comfortable walking and running motion.
Interactive Heart Rate Control
A feature on some exercise machines that adjust speed, resistance or incline to keep the user in his or her heart rate training zone. The user must wear a heart rate monitor for this feature to work.
Maintenance-Free
A term used by treadmill manufacturers meaning the treadmill deck is laminated and does not have to be maintained or lubricated with wax. Occasional cleaning of dust and debris with silicone spray may still be needed to keep this kind of treadmill operating efficiently.
Peak-Duty Horsepower
The absolute maximum horsepower a treadmill motor can reach under peak load conditions (approximately 50 to 60 percent of continuous horsepower ratings.) Other kinds of treadmill motor ratings are: continuous horsepower rating and treadmill horsepower rating.
Pre-Sets
Used in electronic computer controlled equipment to vary the workout speed, resistance, incline, etc. to offer the user a more challenging and variable workout. Also known as courses or programs.
Programs
Used in electronic computer controlled equipment to vary the workout speed, resistance, incline, etc. to offer the user a more challenging and variable workout. Also known as courses or pre-sets.
QuickStart
A feature on some Precor® cardiovascular fitness equipment that lets users start in manual program with a push of a button.
Recumbent Bike
A stationery bike which positions the user in a more reclined position with the user's legs horizontal to the floor with his or her back supported by the seat. It will typically be easier on the lower back than an upright and will emphasize the hamstring (back of thigh) and gluteals.
Smart Rate
A feature on the display of some Precor treadmills which shows you at a glance whether your heart rate is above, below or within your ideal zone. The user must wear a heart rate monitor for this feature to work.
Tread
The moving surface on a treadmill that goes around a series of rollers. Also called belt.
Treadmill Horsepower
The amount of horsepower a motor can reach under intermittent load conditions (approximately 70 to 80 percent of continuous horsepower rating). Other kinds of treadmill motor ratings are: continuous horsepower rating and peak duty horsepower rating.
Upright Bike
A stationary bike that puts the user in a similar position as a traditional bicycle. The user sits on small seat, with his or her back upright and unsupported, and legs vertical to the floor. It emphasizes the quadriceps (the front of the thigh).
