For recovery -non-fancy treadmill, what is important for safety?

[THAIPHUKET]

I want an unimposing treadmill for walking, no running to do some cardio within my physical limitations.

I guess the tread width and the ability to change the incline are important plus fine tuning of slow speed, correct?

The reason why I am asking safety= My walk is unsteady, need a cane

Any suggestions?

[inbangkok]

The most important thing for you is an emergency off switch. They are usually a piece of string connected to a clip. You put the clip on your shorts. That way if you fall, the string is pulled and automatically stops the belt.

[Sheryl]

As above - safety off switch readily at hand

And side railings you can easily grasp

[dddave]

I hope you consult with a cardiologist first. Walking on a treadmill is not the same as walking on the street and it is easy to overstress yourself without realizing it.

[THAIPHUKET]

Side railings, good. I remember one time getting out of step and I fell backwards, they were my only savior not to fall very badly off the treadmill.

In some treadmills many gadgets but very short side railings

TKs everyone

[inbangkok]

As above - safety off switch readily at hand

And side railings you can easily grasp

Forgot about this.... Cheaper home treadmills might not have side railings. Definitely need these if you use a cane for walking.....

Have you thought about a stationary bike? Might be safer.

[THAIPHUKET]

I did think of a bike. But was walking you use more muscles of the back and it trains balance.