When asked, most people will say they prefer walking or
running outdoors to the treadmill. At a glance, the treadmill
seems boring in comparison to the scenery outside. However,
there are definite pros to working out on the treadmill for
maximizing results and keeping your routines consistent.
Why pick the treadmill over outdoor walking/running?
-The treadmill is available for exercises regardless of the
time of day. People that prefer to exercise outside at night
or very early morning, have to wear reflective clothing and
choose routes in safe, well-lit areas.
-The treadmill isn't dependant on good weather. Rain, snow
or humidity can really slow down exercise consistency. It can
also be used as an excuse to not exercise.
-Using a treadmill is surprisingly challenging because you
have to "keep up" with the belt. When you walk
outside, your body will go at a comfortable pace. Even if it's
a fast, comfortable pace. It's our nature to go easy on
ourselves. You also get to stop and take breaks at every
intersection and crosswalk. With the treadmill you are
constantly trying to keep the pace, without rest. It makes a
huge difference. Try starting a walk on a treadmill at 3.0 MPH
and slowly move up to 4.0. This is a very brisk walk that will
have you sweating and shedding the pounds in no time!
-The treadmill is easier on the joints. Walking or running
on concrete is incredibly hard on the body. The treadmill
gives you a great cardio workout without having to take days
off the heal impact strains and shin splints. If you run
outside, stick to the grass as much as possible!
-The treadmill helps you avoid things like garbage day,
which from experience doesn't make the air you are breathing
smell great. Not to mention having to hurdle bins and garbage
juice! It also helps you to avoid big construction jobs which
can be dangerous, or at a minimum slow you down while you try
to find a way around it.
Personally I really enjoy running and walking outside and
do both activities regularly. However, I use my electric
treadmill primarily for cardio in the morning. It helps me to
stick to my program and get the job done, without having to
leave my house. This really works for me because I don't like
have having to wash my face, brush my hair and teeth and in
general, not look like a zombie, in case I bump in to my
neighbours.
The treadmill seems underrated. Having lost weight using
one and still using one to this day, it's been an incredibly
beneficial machine to get and stay fit. Just remember to put
on your headphones on, to forget you are staring at a wall!
Try The Treadmill!
