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!
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