Using audio CDs, downloads or videos of tailor-made treadmill training programmes can be a "great alternative" to using a personal trainer, a fitness expert has said.

Kevin Urban of treadmill review site treadmilltalk.com said only qualified personal trainers can show exercisers how to effectively burn calories and build strength in the upper body, but they are a luxury many fitness fans cannot afford.

However, a range of audio products on the market can provide a workout plan from a qualified instructor at a fraction of the price, he added.

Among them are CDs, videos and mp3 downloads for iFit-compatible treadmills, which use a "virtual trainer" to automatically control treadmill speed and include instructions and motivation to maximise the benefits of working out.

For runners without iFit-compatible machines, online training site Workouts For You provides certified personal trainers who will devise a custom exercise regime that can either be delivered to their door or downloaded onto an mp3 player, computer or some types of treadmill.

Some iFit-compatible treadmills include the NordicTrack C2500 and the Proform 3.8.

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