Running is a beautiful way to get fit. It is so simple and so basic,
and while it can be difficult at first, the rewards come quickly to
those who persist.
Running is also one of the most efficient ways to burn calories. As a
cardiovascular exercise, it reduces the risk of certain diseases,
strengthens the heart and lungs, and boosts confidence and energy.
Many runners are so hooked that it's a real bummer when we get too busy
or when bad weather moves in and we have to take a day or two off.
That's when many runners turn to the treadmill, which can be used any
time of day and during any season.
Here are a few points to consider when you begin your treadmill running
regimen:
Beyond the obvious benefit that you can run anytime, day or night, in
any kind of weather, running on a treadmill can actually be safer than
running outside.
Treadmills offer a smooth running surface that can be easier on your
joints than running outside on the pavement, as long as you are
exercising proper technique. On a treadmill, you don't need to worry
about twisting an ankle on an uneven trail. You also don't need to worry
about encountering strange people, dogs, or wild animals.
Treadmills also make it easy to determine your pace and incline. It's
fun to measure your fitness via statistics, which are clearly calculated
and displayed on a treadmill throughout your workout. By using a
treadmill, you will know how it feels to run a certain pace and incline,
and you can begin to challenge yourself a little bit at a time by making
gradual adjustments.
Part of what I love about running is getting out into the sunshine and
the fresh air, so the treadmill will never totally replace my outdoor
running regimen, but there are plenty of days (particularly in my
climate zone) when it is the best alternative.
How can I maximize calorie burn on a treadmill?
The secret to a great workout on a treadmill lies in your ability to
vary your intensity.
By using either preset running programs on the treadmill, or by manually
adjusting the incline and speed, you can challenge yourself with an
interval workout, which is a fantastic way to help you progress to new
and better levels of fitness.
To begin an interval workout, make sure to warm up for a half mile or
so. Then set the treadmill on a speed lower than you are accustomed to
running. Alternate a faster speed with that slower speed for specific
time intervals, ranging from one to five minutes. If you are a beginner,
aim for five intervals, gradually increasing the number of intervals, as
well as the top speed, as you progress.
You can also vary the incline. Try alternating workouts, focusing on
speed one day and incline the next.
What if I get bored?
The number one reason people stop using a treadmill is plain-and-simple
boredom.
To combat boredom during your workout, use headphones and download music
from the internet. Choose songs that motivate you, and set a
predetermined number of songs to run through. That will keep you from
continually checking the numbers on the display to see how much longer
or farther you still have to go.
If you're working out at home, record your favorite TV shows during the
week and catch up on them during your workout. Just make sure these
distractions don't pull you away from proper technique and the focus you
need to complete a great workout.
If you're at the gym, find a workout partner. The competition,
camaraderie, and accountability that come from working out with someone
can be motivating enough to help alleviate those feelings of boredom.
When you are first starting to run on a treadmill, it's a good idea to
try out the machines at your local health club before purchasing one for
home use. High quality treadmills are expensive, so you want to get a
good sense for the features that you'll need.
Treadmills make it so the runner in you never has to sit out a season.
Enjoy your run!
Note: The tips in this article are for general information only. Before
starting any exercise routine, you should consult with your doctor.
About the Author:
Susie Cortright is the founder of
Momscape.com, where she hand-picks only the very best
online coupons
and products each day, including
online coupons
for running shoes.
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