Maximizing Your Treadmill Workouts: Benefits and Tips
Most runners have had some experience with treadmills, whether due to heavy rain, extreme temperatures, or tight schedules. Treadmills provide a safe and time-efficient alternative for training. Beyond convenience, treadmill workouts offer numerous benefits.
Precise and Consistent Intensity
No matter the workout, treadmills allow you to set an exact pace. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners who struggle with pacing. The treadmill ensures that every second of your workout is at your desired pace.
During high-intensity intervals, you don't have to worry about starting too fast. Simply input the speed on the panel, and you can focus on pushing your limits.
Effective Cadence Training
The treadmill's belt propels your feet backward, meaning you don't need to expend extra energy to move forward. For runners with a low cadence, the treadmill can help increase their step rate. Regular treadmill sessions at a higher cadence can positively impact your outdoor running cadence.
Better Recovery
Many treadmills are equipped with shock absorption systems, reducing the impact on your legs and decreasing fatigue. This makes treadmills ideal for easy recovery runs or low-intensity aerobic workouts, enhancing muscle recovery.
Additionally, because treadmills lessen the strain on your lower limbs, they are an excellent option for runners recovering from injuries.
Safer Hill Training
Treadmills allow you to adjust the incline, which is perfect for runners who don't have access to hilly terrain. For hill interval training, treadmills provide a safer option. After completing an uphill segment, you can immediately stop and rest without the risk of downhill running, which can be hard on your joints.
While treadmill training has its benefits, it's important to note a few considerations. Running on a treadmill can be easier than running outdoors because the belt helps move your legs, and there's no wind resistance indoors. This means you might expend less energy at the same speed, making treadmill running feel easier.
If you frequently train on a treadmill, you might find running on pavement more challenging. To better simulate outdoor running, I recommend increasing the treadmill incline by 1-2%.
