With this information in hand, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find the perfect piece of equipment for your home gym. What to look for in a treadmill or running machine. The type of surface: Flat, incline, and decline options are available with many treadmills. Most also have a built-in fan or cooling system that can be used during your cardio workout. This can help you stay cool and motivated during intense workouts. Treadmill consoles: These are the screens on top of the treadmill that display your speed, time elapsed, distance traveled, heart rate level and other information throughout your workout. Built-in speakers: Many treadmills include built-in speakers to enhance the music you listen to while working out.