Taos Treadmills: Altitude Lies Inflating Senior Strain?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Denver is thin, and the pressure to stay fit is thick. You see them everywhere: sleek, expensive Taos treadmills humming away in sun-drenched condos, promising peak performance at altitude. But whispers are growing louder, especially among the senior community in places like Denver, Albuquerque, and even Santa Fe. Are these treadmills lying about their metrics? Are they pushing vulnerable users past their limits? The stakes are high: overexertion at altitude can be deadly.
The problem isn’t just about vanity; it’s about safety.
User reviews paint a concerning picture. Many seniors report feeling more winded than usual, despite the treadmill displaying seemingly normal speed and incline levels. Some have even experienced dizziness and lightheadedness, symptoms of altitude sickness exacerbated by strenuous exercise. These anecdotes, while not scientific proof, raise a red flag, particularly given the higher risk profile of older adults.
Let’s get specific. Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez in Albuquerque. She’s 72, has mild COPD, and uses her Taos treadmill for daily cardio. She sets it to a 2.0 mph pace and a 3% incline, similar to her usual outdoor walk. However, she finds herself gasping for air after just 10 minutes, something that never happens on her regular walks around her neighborhood. Is the treadmill accurately reflecting the effort she’s exerting?
To investigate, we need to compare the Taos treadmill’s data against independent measurements. This isn’t as simple as comparing one treadmill to another. We need calibrated equipment and a controlled environment.
Here’s a step-by-step approach you can take, even without access to a fancy lab:
Find a Baseline: Use a reliable GPS-enabled fitness tracker (like a Garmin or Apple Watch) during an outdoor walk on a flat surface. Note your heart rate, pace, and perceived exertion level (using a scale of 1-10, where 1 is resting and 10 is maximal effort). Do this multiple times to establish a consistent baseline.
Replicate on the Treadmill: Attempt to replicate the same pace and incline on the Taos treadmill. Monitor your heart rate and perceived exertion. If your heart rate is significantly higher or your perceived exertion is greater than during your outdoor walk, it suggests the treadmill’s metrics might be inaccurate.
Incline Test: Use a digital level to verify the actual incline of the treadmill. Many treadmills, regardless of brand, have been known to have inaccurate incline settings. A discrepancy here could explain the increased exertion.
Speed Calibration: Use a stopwatch and mark a distance on the treadmill belt (e.g., one meter). Measure how long it takes for the belt to travel that distance at various speed settings. Compare this to the treadmill’s displayed speed.
Consult a Professional: Share your findings with a physical therapist or exercise physiologist. They can provide personalized advice and assess whether the treadmill is appropriate for your individual needs and health conditions.
The challenge here is access to accurate measuring tools and the time commitment required for thorough testing. However, even a basic comparison can reveal significant discrepancies.
One common pitfall is relying solely on the treadmill’s heart rate monitor. These monitors, especially the grip-based ones, are notoriously inaccurate. A chest strap heart rate monitor provides a much more reliable reading.
But what if the Taos treadmill is inaccurate? What are the alternatives, especially for seniors in high-altitude regions?
Low-impact cardio is crucial. Here are some options tailored for the unique challenges of exercising at altitude:
Walking (Outdoors): This remains the gold standard. The key is to adjust your pace and distance based on how you feel. Choose flatter routes initially and gradually increase the incline as your body adapts. Consider walking in lower-altitude areas if possible, especially during the initial acclimatization period. For example, if you live in Denver, a drive down to Colorado Springs (lower elevation) for a walk might be beneficial.
Stationary Cycling: This is a great option because it’s low-impact and allows you to control the resistance. Look for recumbent bikes, which provide back support and are easier on the joints.
Elliptical Trainer: While still weight-bearing, the elliptical provides a smoother, more fluid motion than a treadmill, reducing stress on the joints. Start with low resistance and gradually increase the intensity as tolerated.
Water Aerobics: This is an excellent choice for seniors with arthritis or other joint pain. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints, while the resistance provides a good cardiovascular workout. Many community centers in Albuquerque and Santa Fe offer water aerobics classes specifically designed for seniors.
Chair Exercises: For those with limited mobility, chair exercises can provide a gentle yet effective workout. These exercises can improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. Look for classes specifically designed for seniors with mobility limitations.
Remember, the key to safe exercise at altitude is gradual acclimatization, proper hydration, and listening to your body. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially when starting a new exercise program.
The potential inaccuracies of Taos treadmills, particularly for vulnerable populations like seniors in high-altitude areas, highlight the importance of independent verification and personalized exercise plans. Don’t blindly trust the machine. Trust your body, and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure your fitness routine is safe and effective. The goal isn’t just to stay active; it’s to stay healthy and independent for years to come.