To improve tracking, an exercise treadmill is provided with a frame including
molded plastic pulleys, having an integral gear belt sprocket, an endless belt
extending around the pulleys and a motor operatively connected to the rear pulley
to drive the belt. The pulleys are molded out of plastic and have a diameter of
approximately nine inches. A mold and method for producing large diameter treadmill
pulleys having an integrally molded sprocket are also disclosed. A deck underneath
the running surface of the belt is supported by resilient members. A positive lateral
belt tracking mechanism is used to correct the lateral position of the belt. A
belt position sensor mechanism is used in combination with a front pulley pivoting
mechanism to maintain the belt in the desired lateral position on the pulleys.
The exercise treadmill also includes a lift mechanism with an internally threaded
sleeve engaged to vertically aligned nonrotating screws. A user display of foot
impact force on the belt is also provided.