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The History Of Treadmills Unearthed... |
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The history of treadmills lies back in 1875. When the
need for an all time power solution arose, treadmills were invented.
They were initially invented for the purpose of generating power, rather
than fitness.
The first of treadmills were actually agricultural
machines called ‘level power’ treadmills. They were built in various
sizes. The smaller ones were run by dogs and sheep to power attached
butter churners while the bigger ones were used for threshing machines
and were run by horses.
It was in the year 1952
that cardiologist Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton gave shape to the first
ever medical treadmill. They together, developed the standard treadmill
test to diagnose and evaluate heart and lung disease. Quinton later sold
his concept to Stairmaster, which was then bought by Nautilus.
The
fitness enthusiasts liked the concept and started demanding a better and
smoother machine for their daily workouts. Recognizing the needs and
demands of the customers, the companies started working towards making
better and more user-friendly treadmills. Some of the companies which
started working towards this were Tunturi, Aerobics Inc., Woodway, Track
Master, and Star Trac.
Since then there has been no turning back.
A report by The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association concluded that
treadmill sales in the U.S. alone shot up 10 % in 1996, climbing to $725
million from $660 million in 1995. Also, in 2001, there were over 43
million treadmill users.
It is quite evident that the treadmill
industry has been on a run all through. The popularity has been immense
and the trend has just caught on. The future also holds promising growth
and development with various popular brands doing their rounds in the
market.
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