Yes, running on a treadmill is great workout. Yes, it’s ultra-convenient. Yes, it’s an effective way to lose weight. But is it exciting? Chances are you’re shaking your head no.
The truth is, most people feel like running on a treadmill is boring. And when your workout gets boring, there’s an above average chance you’ll exercise less or—worse yet–stop all together.
You don’t have to be a slave to boring, repetitive workouts. Especially with today’s advances in treadmill technology, there are more ways than ever to keep your workout fresh and fun.
- Watch television or a movie – You’d be surprised how many people face their treadmill toward a wall and stare at nothing for 20 minutes. No wonder they hate working out! Turn your treadmill toward the TV and pop in a good movie. Personally, I like to watch educational programs…it’s a great way to exercise your mind and your body simultaneously.
- Listen to music – This is another no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning. Most people are pretty passionate about the music they listen to. So playing your favorite tunes during a workout is a great way to motivate yourself to put in an extra mile or two.
- Vary your workout program – Most treadmills today come with pre-configured workout programs that utilize various speed and incline patterns. Don’t use the same program every day! Not only will changing up your program keep every workout fresh, it’s more effective at burning calories since your body is constantly guessing.
- Add other elements to your treadmill workout – One of the great things about running on a treadmill is that your hands are free. Try grabbing a set of small dumbbells and working your upper body while your run.
- Walk backwards – I know, it sound ridiculous, but it works! Set your treadmill to a slow speed and walk backwards for 10 or 15 minutes. You’ll be amazed at the different muscle groups you use with this technique.
- Workout with a friend or spouse – This is a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family while getting a great workout. Since you probably don’t have two treadmills, create a schedule where one person does weight training while the other runs on the treadmill and vice versa.
- Challenge yourself – Set different goals one a month or even once a week. Try decreasing the time it takes you to run a mile. Or try to run three miles instead of two. When you reach one goal, move on to the next.
Do you have a unique or fun element that makes your treadmill workout more exciting? We’d love to hear them. Feel free to share by clicking on the comments link below!
