Treadmills that take the pounding

Last year, 40 million Americans used treadmills, and consumers bought more of them than all other home exercise machines combined. It’s easy to see why: Although pricey (the pounding quickly destroys sub-$1,500 models), quality treads deliver unbeatable aerobic bang for the buck. With tougher engines and heart-rate control, these four will give you a run for your money.

Sleek, futuristic design

Woodway Path: One of the most durable, expensive and radical designs. Found in many National Football League training facilities, it handles heavy loads (such as 300-pound defensive ends) with a unique running surface that looks like a tank tread: 52 rubber-coated aluminum planks that roll suspended between two rail loops. The design avoids the typical friction that occurs between a standard treadmill’s fabric belt and underlying hardwood deck.

Likes: Smooth and durable, with futuristic looks. Shock absorbtion so good that you can run barefoot (I did). A foot shorter than other treadmills, so it takes up less space in your home.

Dislikes: The top speed of 11 mph and a maximum grade of 15% is adequate, if unimpressive, considering the steep price. Getting repair service might be problematic, as the machine is made by a small, family-owned Milwaukee company that has no dealers in Los Angeles.

Price: $5,950. (800) 966-3929; woodway.com.

Fully loaded and high-tech

True Fitness 500 HRC: A high-end treadmill from a well-established manufacturer, a market leader loaded with bells, whistles and creature comforts.

Likes: No squeaks, no rattles, just a quiet so deep you can hear your own breathing. Rock-solid construction and classy lines. A rare heart-rate control program that changes both speed and elevation to keep you in a preferred zone. Unique “cruise control express” key allows you to enter your target heart rate during a workout. UltraCoach software provides a fitness test, records workouts and recommends new ones. A 15% maximum grade. An optional, extra-thick belt is available for $300 if you want to feel like you’re running on carpet.

Dislikes: 10 mph maximum speed is too low for interval training for experienced runners. Rival machines go up to 12 mph.

Price: $3,495. (800) 426-6570; truefitness.com.

Detailed precision with a funky twist

Smooth EVO-2: First treadmill that allows you to speed up or slow down the machine by waving a hand over a sensor on the hand rail.

Likes: Long, 62-inch tread belt. Funky styling. Large, easy-to-read panel displays. A novel “swingarm” suspension that provides extra cushioning for your body. Optional $299 sound system with CD and MP3 players and speakers. Great value.

Dislikes: Maximums of 10 mph and 12% grade are insufficient for serious runners.

Price: $2,399. (888) 211-1611; evofitness.com.

Saves on space -- and money

Bvision T9459HRT Folding Treadmill: Economical, full-featured space-saver for use in apartments or small spaces.

Likes: Feels solid enough that you might forget it’s a fold-up. Despite low price, good basics for average runners: heart-rate programs, cushioning and 10 mph and 12% grade maximums. Folds to a very small 33-by-30 square inches. and rolls away easily. Great value.

Dislikes: Too fragile for hard-core runners and heavyweights.

Price: $1,899. (800) 335-4348; visionfitness.com.