The Machine

When searching for a treadmill that would meet the demands of a treadmill desk set-up I found the following variables to be important:

-It must be able to run at a very low speed
-It should have a continuous duty motor for long durations of low speed use
-It should not be so loud as to bother office spaces adjacent to mine.
-As much warranty on the motor and electronics as I could afford.
-Purchasing the treadmill from a reputable store that would stand behind the product beyond the manufacturer warranty.

I am only aware of two stores with the committment to stand behind their products for a significant time period after purchase: Sam's Club and Costco.

Sam's Club did not have a treadmill that met the other variables. Costco did. At Costco I found the Smooth Fitness 7.6 HR, with excellent warranty terms: lifetime warranty on frame and motor combined with 5 years parts & electronics and 2 years in-home service. Costco was also priced significantly less than any other outlet selling the same model, with in-home delivery and set-up included in the cost! I decided on this model and ordered it online for delivery at the office.

Here is a more comprehensive list of the features and specifications. If you have questions, feel free to send me a message.

Features:

Exclusive Power Fold: No more struggling to fold your treadmill. One switch elevates the Smooth 7.6HR Pro's deck into the upright position to free up floor space. (not necessary for planned office use, plus it's freaky having that deck hanging up there, would you really use the space under it?)

Extra Long 20" x 60" Whisper Weave Treadbelt: Industry experts and customers alike rave about how quietly the Smooth 7.6HR Pro treadmill operates. The generous length accomodates the tallest users and gives all runners the freedom to explode into long, sweeping strides.(Length not needed, but quiet operation is essential)

Quiet, Powerful 3.0 HP Motor: Built for long life and complete silence. Engineered with an advanced Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) circuit board typical of commercial treadmills, the 7.6HR Pro operates noise-free. Optical speed sensors working in conjunction with the PWM ensure smooth speed changes, plus dual motor fans give added life to your treadmill. (Commercial grade, and dual fans, also great for durability)

Triple-Laminated Phenolic Deck with Im-Pression Shock Absorption: This exclusive technology provides a soft landing for the front foot and firm push-off for the rear foot, reducing harmful impact on the joints and back. Exercise more safely and for longer periods of time with less fatigue.(I've been told that treadmill decks can be like walking on concrete so this *sounds* good)

Heart Rate Control with Wireless Chest Strap: Through programmed settings you control, the wireless heart rate monitor can automatically adjust the intensity of your treadmill workouts. An ergonomically positioned handgrip pulse monitor is also included so you can conveniently track your pulse when not wearing the strap. (Nice addition but not necessary for this application)

Deluxe LED Console: Praised in treadmill reviews for its ease of use, the well-planned display allows you to monitor your distance, calories, speed, speed profile, time and pulse simultaneously. (Seems pretty standard)

Nine Storable User Profiles: This tool comes in particularly handy for households with multiple treadmill users. No more keying in your information each and every time you get on the treadmill: up to 9 users can save age, gender, weight and target heart rate information for instant access. Not really applicable for the intended use

Specifications:
Motor: 3.0 HP Continuous Duty
Speed Range: 0.5-11.2 mph
Incline Levels: 0-15
Running Surface: 20" x 60"
8 Challenging Preset Exercise Programs Target Distance, Target Time, Target Calories, Interval Incline, Interval Speed, Weight Loss, 5K Self-Learning/Competition, Heart Rate Control
3 User-Defined Custom Exercise Programs
Hand Grip Pulse Sensors and Polar Wireless Heart Rate Sensor Working together to calculate the most accurate pulse reading
Transport Wheels: Yes
Floor Level Adjustment: Yes
Water Bottle Holders: 2
Treadmill Dimensions (Open): 82 L x 39" W x 58" H
Treadmill Dimensions (Folded): 49 L x 39 W x 68.5 H
Treadmill Weight: 310 lbs.
Max User Weight: 350 lbs.
Frame Materials: 11-Gauge Powder-Coated Steel
Power Supply: AC 110V Input

After purchasing this treadmill I was lucky to find out that this model can be easily modified to remove the console from the arms to allow a desk to be fitted over the treadmill at an ergonomic height. As you can see on the picture to the right, I used an IKEA height adjustable desk. I will follow up with a post on my treadmill hack in the near future.