How to Make the Most of Your Treadmill Workouts

Some runners love the fresh air and changing scenery of outdoor runs, while others appreciate the stability and convenience of treadmill workouts. When the weather is freezing and windy, treadmills become the best option for many to keep up their training.

Two women exercising on treadmills at a gym. One wears a purple top and gray leggings, while the other is dressed in a white tank top and gray leggings. Both are focused on their workout in a healthy and active environment, with other fitness equipment and a view of the outside through the windows in the background

Whether it's early in the morning or a free afternoon, at the gym or in your living room, a treadmill lets you run whenever you want. But using a treadmill effectively requires more than just hopping on and hitting start. Here's how to get the most out of your treadmill workouts.

Understanding Your Treadmill

Before you begin, familiarize yourself with your treadmill's features. Modern treadmills can adjust speed and incline, record data like distance and heart rate, and offer various training modes. Take some time to explore these functions and find a preset mode that suits your needs to save setup time.

Incorporate Speed Training Indoors

Beyond steady runs, treadmills are great for speed workouts like intervals, tempo runs, and fartleks. However, be aware that treadmills take a few seconds to adjust speed, so stay focused to adapt to these changes smoothly.

For long, slow distance (LSD) runs, the controlled environment of a treadmill can help you maintain a steady pace and build mental endurance. Position yourself closer to the screen for safety and to help maintain your cadence.

Use Incline for Strength Training

Adjusting the treadmill's incline can simulate different terrains and intensify your workout. Here are three recommended incline workouts:

Pyramid Run: Start at a 2% incline and increase incrementally, running 1 mile at each incline up to 5%, then reverse the pattern.
Hill Intervals: Set the incline to 4%, run fast for 1.5 minutes, rest for 2 minutes, and repeat 5-10 times. Cool down with a 10-minute jog.
Long Hill Runs: Warm up, then alternate between 20 minutes at a 5% incline and 10 minutes at a 1% incline.

Remember, treadmill inclines are measured in percentage, not degrees. A 5% incline means a 5-meter vertical rise for every 100 meters forward.

Simulate Outdoor Running

Some say treadmill running is easier because it lacks the push-off phase. To counteract this, add a 1% incline to mimic outdoor resistance, as recommended by research from the University of Exeter.

Combining incline and speed variations can replicate outdoor conditions, making treadmill workouts more effective.

A young man wearing a green vest and black shorts exercising on a treadmill at a gym. He wears headphones and has a focused expression as he holds the handles of the treadmill. His posture suggests effort and concentration, while the background shows other fitness equipment and a view of the city skyline through a large window.

Safety and Preparation Tips

Warm-Up Properly: Just like outdoor running, do dynamic stretches and exercises to prepare your body.
Wear Appropriate Gear: Even at home, wear proper running attire and shoes to prevent injuries.
Check the Machine: Ensure the treadmill is stable, dry, and functioning correctly before starting.
Use Safety Features: Stand on the sides before starting the treadmill, hold the handrails when getting on and off, and use the safety clip.
Pace Yourself: Start with a slower speed and lower incline, gradually increasing as you find your rhythm.
Monitor Your Heart Rate: Use the treadmill's built-in monitor to stay within a safe and effective heart rate zone.
Secure Your Phone: If listening to music or watching videos, use wireless headphones and secure your phone to avoid accidents.
Cool Down Gradually: Reduce speed slowly to prevent dizziness and always cool down properly.
Ensure Good Ventilation: Keep the room well-ventilated and the temperature comfortable for optimal performance.
Combine Indoor and Outdoor Training: Use the treadmill for bad weather days to keep up your routine and add variety to your training.

A young woman in a gray and black sports vest paired with dark shorts stands next to a treadmill in a gym. Her hair is tied in a ponytail, and she holds a white towel in one hand and a blue water bottle in the other. The background reveals windows and an outdoor parking lot, creating a sense of an active and healthy lifestyle.

By following these tips, you can make treadmill workouts enjoyable and effective, keeping your training on track regardless of the weather. Happy running!