Don't Discount the "Dread"-Mill
How to Get the Most Out of Your Treadmill Workout
The treadmill is often the most dreaded piece of equipment in the gym. Its reputation of being a gruelling, repetitive, and difficult machine to spend time on is unwarranted, however. The treadmill deserves a lot of credit! It can simulate specific conditions, allow you to check your form as you run, keep track of the numbers, and allows you to run in any conditions!
There are a few things you can do to boost your treadmill workouts to ensure you're getting the most out of them, however. Try running with a slight incline to simulate outdoor conditions; avoid using the handrails to increase calorie burn; incorporate interval training to your workout by alternating between speeds and interval intensity; or try running hills without the drawback of having to run back down afterwards, which can lead to impact injuries.
As with any form of exercise, treadmill safety is paramount to the experience being healthy and productive. Always use the safety mechanism; straddle the belt before beginning your run and step onto it once the belt has begun to very slowly move; be smart about distractions; maintain proper form at all times; and take a break if you need one.
Once you've ensured you're using your treadmill safely and smartly, you can follow our treadmill workouts for beginners, hikers, and hill runners. By the end of this guide you'll not only no longer dread the treadmill; you'll be itching for your next workout. What are you waiting for?
