Using a treadmill is a great way to stay in shape from the comfort of your own home. Unfortunately, it can get boring seeing the same scenery every time you get on your treadmill. There are various ways to help make using your treadmill an interesting and productive experience every time. Using different techniques and following a proper routine make using a treadmill a worthwhile fitness experience.
Instructions
Exercising on a Treadmill
1. Prepare for your treadmill session by wearing the appropriate clothing, such as loose, breathable shorts and top, as well as comfortable running shoes. Be sure to have plenty of water on hand.
2. Start with a brisk walk or a light jog, working up to a pace that is not too difficult, but also not too easy. Do this for about 10 minutes before adding difficulty.
3. Change the grade (or steepness) occasionally if your treadmill has this option. Adjust the speed to compensate for the added difficulty, or keep it as it was for an even more difficult exercise. Remember not to overwork yourself.
4. Adjust the speed and grade to experience varying workouts. Imagine you're traversing a rugged mountain ridge that is rarely consistent.
5. Distract yourself by exercising with a friend, listening to music or watching TV if you start to get bored with your run or will be running at a consistent rate for a long time.
6. Get off the treadmill and do other exercises using free weights, a jump rope, or an exercise pad to do push-ups or ab workouts before you get back on the treadmill to finish the exercise. This option works best if you've familiarized yourself well with your treadmill running habits and know conserve energy throughout the workout.
7. Monitor your body by measuring your heart rate to help keen an objective perspective during your workout. Purchase a heart rate monitor for your chest or wrist if your treadmill doesn't include one which measures through your hands. Monitor your progress by trying to maintain a level heart rate for a set amount of time.
8. Increase the intensity and speed at which you run as you become a stronger runner. Challenge yourself and your body to ensure that you're getting the most out of your workout.
9. Stretch before and after you run. Stretch your legs by keeping your back straight while you reach for your toes. Do this for about two minutes for each leg. Next, grab the tops of your feet, bending at the knee and reaching your heel to your butt. Push your hip forward for an additional stretch; again, two minutes each leg. Place outstretched arms on a solid wall and then put your feet back almost as far as they will go, one at a time, bending at the ankles and keeping your heels as close to the ground as possible.
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