Originally published on mhaymandou.net
Running on the treadmill may seem like something that one only does when they have no other option to run because of something like bad weather. In reality, running on the treadmill is a great way to help maintain good form for when you are running off the treadmill. It might seem daunting at first to “train” for running on the treadmill but there are several things you can do to help make the run a little more bearable and fun for yourself.
- Prepare
The first step for running on the treadmill is to make sure you’re wearing the right outfit. Sounds silly, doesn’t it? You’re just running. However, you want to make sure that you’re wearing quality shorts and a T-shirt. You will sweat. Keep that in mind as you select your running clothes. Make sure that you also are wearing your regular running shoes. You shouldn’t buy a brand new pair of shoes the morning before you go on your run. This could lead to pain in your feet or even injury. Bring a hand towel or something similar with you to your run to wipe away any sweat that may come up. The most important thing to have ready for your run? Water! You need to ensure that you remain hydrated during your run.
- Warm up correctly
Don’t just step on the treadmill and try to go as fast as you can. You want to warm up to a run. Start out with a simple walk for about 3 minutes and then progress into a light jog for another 3 minutes. The main goal here is to get the blood pumping and to get your heart going a little faster.
- Quality not quantity
You shouldn’t worry about how fast you can run initially. Focus more on the quality of your running. Progression runs are a great workout. You can start out slow and gradually increase by one-tenth mile per hour every quarter mile.
- Split the run
Another great idea would be to split your run into separate sessions on the same day. First, it’ll make the run seem a little less daunting and more manageable. Additionally, splitting these runs into two sessions helps keep your resting metabolic rate higher than if you just ran the full run at one pass.
- Embrace the run
Be present in the run! Don’t worry about what’s going on around you. You’re running and you’re having the time of your life (hopefully). Focus on your run and your cadence to help keep distractions at a minimum.
Treadmill training is not hard to do. If done correctly, it can be extremely enjoyable and beneficial to you as a runner when you can’t get outside and run. Trust yourself while you’re on the treadmill that what you’re doing is right. If you focus on the run and how your body is reacting to it, you’ll have an easy run.
Maria Haymandou 