If you're buying a treadmill, chances are you've done lots of research already. You probably know exactly what makes up a high quality treadmill and have an idea of which features you want in your unit.

But even with this knowledge many people still fall prey to slick treadmill deals that end up costing them in the long run.

In order to keep that from happening to you, here are 3 essential buying tips to make sure you choose the very best treadmill for you.

#1) Not All Treadmill Brands Are Created Equal

The decision to purchase home exercise equipment can be a daunting one. There are so many factors to consider.

What kind of exercise equipment to buy? Where will you buy your equipment from? Will you have enough space for it? What fitness goals will you try to accomplish with it? The list of concerns can be quite long. Cost, however, is probably the most important consideration for many - especially if you are on a budget.

Buying a treadmill? Chances are you'll want to comparison shop to find the best deal for you. Looking at all of the options available can often save you hundreds of dollars.

But where can you look?

The #1 fear that people have when investing in a home treadmill (or any piece of exercise equipment) is that they won't use it.

You know the story. It gets delivered, you set it up and enjoy it for a few days...and then it sits...and waits.

A few months down the road, you notice how dusty it has become and how much space it's taking up. And you remember how much weight you were determined to lose by using it faithfully every day. But now, unfortunately, it doubles as a clothes rack.