The #1 fear people have when buying a treadmill is that they won't use it. (That's the #1 fear when buying any piece of exercise equipment).

They know that a treadmill can help them lose weight, get fit, burn extra calories and reach their fitness goals.

But that's only if you use it. A treadmill is a large investment to make and you want to be sure that it is the right piece of exercise equipment for your needs.

How do you know if a treadmill is right for you? How do you know if it's suitable for the kind of exercise that fits your lifestyle?

If you're thinking about buying a treadmill, here are 3 ways to tell if a treadmill is the right piece of exercise equipment for you:

#1 Do you prefer to exercise alone or in groups?

Walking on a treadmill is not a group activity (it could be - but that's a little dangerous). If you prefer to exercise with other people, say for example in a group sports situation, a treadmill might not be the best choice for you.

Of course a treadmill can add another side to your exercise options if you do get most of your exercise from social or group sports. But if you absolutely hate exercising by yourself, don't buy a treadmill.

On the other hand, some people enjoy exercising on their own - it's a sort of getaway from the constant social buzz surrounding them every day. A treadmill would be great for someone looking for this kind of exercise 'retreat'.

#2) Do you prefer to exercise outdoors or indoors?

Some people prefer to exercise outdoors. They take hikes to enjoy the beauty of nature or rollerblade down the sidewalks to take in the fresh air. If you prefer to be outdoors to exercise then a treadmill probably isn't for you.

And if you live in all-year-round sunny, warm weather, you may not need a treadmill (then again, you may prefer an air-conditioned workout.)

However, if you happen to live in seasonal climates where it rains, snows or both, a treadmill can be a handy tool to maintain your fitness regimen during the bleak weather months. A treadmill can help you fight winter weight gain and even stave off those nasty winter blues.

#3 Do you enjoy walking, jogging or running?

Walking is an exercise that everybody can do. It's simple, doesn't require heightened coordination, and can be a great way to clear your head and deal with stress. Anyone can do it, regardless of fitness level - from absolute beginner to elite athlete.

There are also people who enjoy the rhythm and routine of jogging or running. Running or jogging is also one of the best all-round ways to burn fat. Again, it's fairly simple to do and doesn't require complex coordination.

While the benefits to walking, jogging and running are numerous, some people just don't like to exercise this way. They like the challenge of a box-aerobics class or mastering a complicated martial art. If you fall into this category, a treadmill will not meet your exercise preferences and it probably isn't the right machine for you.

If you do like walking but still want a challenge or even a distraction, there are easy ways to do this, of course.

Treadmills are growing more sophisticated all the time offering numerous built-in

Copyright © 2005 Kathryn O'Neill

About Kathryn: Kathryn O'Neill is the chief editor for Treadmill Review (http://www.treadmillreview.net).For more buying tips, treadmill brand reviews, and best buys visit http://www.treadmillreview.net.