The
Benefits of a Treadmill for Running
Don't Let the Weather Dictate Your Exercise Routine
If you are a serious
runner then a treadmill for running becomes a necessity. Granted, when the weather
is nice nothing beats running outside and enjoying nature. Our hectic schedules
tend to allow us little time to be outdoors. But when the temperatures drop and
the days get short a treadmill allows you to run all year long. Why
let the elements interfere with your exercise when you can purchase a treadmill
for running? I prefer to exercise in the morning, and come by October the sun
peaks out somewhere around 7:30am. If I get an hour run in, clean up and have
a bite to eat, it is 9:00am before I am ready to roll. Doing your running on a
treadmill liberates you from the restrictions of the season. And if running is
an addiction, as it is with me, then you absolutely must have that endorphin rush.
According
to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, consumers spend more money for
treadmills then any other home exercise equipment. In 2006 there were over 77
million treadmill users, a 9% increase over the following year. There are a number
of reasons that a treadmill is popular for either running or walking.
Either
Run or Walk
The
two most popular forms of exercise are running and walking. Whether you are a
casual walker or a serious runner, a treadmill can accommodate your exercise needs.
Set the speed and incline to suite your desired cardiovascular goals. You can
do a power walk up an incline or a heart pumping running at high speed.
Avoid
Bad Weather
A
treadmill can guarantee a consistent workout in all seasons. If you live in a
cold climate, freezing temperatures and snow will not disrupt your exercise. For
those in warm temperate regions, you don't need to be concerned about heat exhaustion
in hot and humid weather.
Reduced
Running Impact
For
walkers and runners alike, injuries are common from the constant pounding of joints
on asphalt and concrete. Particularly higher end treadmills offer surfaces that
absorb impact and reduce pressure from running. Injuries are less common and stress
is reduced on those critical joints. Achilles tendons, knee joints, back muscles,
ankles, thighs take less of a beating, which guarantee that you'll continue your
walking and running exercise into your old age.
Running
Versatility
As
the design of a treadmill becomes more sophisticated, so does the versatility
of the exercise. Speed and incline controls have always been a feature on motorized
treadmills, but now your workout is enhanced by a variety of preprogrammed computerized
exercises. Simulate running up and down hills, focus on cardio exercise, concentrate
on burning calories, or work on speed training. Often a treadmill will have preset
programs with various levels of intensity. In addition you can program your own
workout, combining speed with incline in a variety of running challenges.
Choosing
a Treadmill for Running
Treadmills
come in all shapes and sizes, including folding and stationary models. It is important
to find just that right model that accommodates your present and future exercise
goals. The Internet is ideal for researching different models and their features.
In addition, there are numerous resources for treadmill reviews and customer testimonials.
See Independent
Resources for Treadmill Reviews. Don't
be lured by the blue light specials found in large retail and sporting goods stores.
They lack the components and functionality to provide an enduring and pleasurable
exercise experience. If you are in it for the long run, you'll want to buy a treadmill
that is build to last and designed to be virtually maintenance free. Running on
a treadmill exerts considerable stress on the machine. If you are in the market
for a treadmill for running then purchase one that has quality components and
is backed with excellent warranty. Go
here for an overview of our treadmill ratings and for
our best buy recommendations. You
will also find some good exercise and nutrition tips at the
Lincoln Laboratory Fitness Center site. There
is also a good article on
cross-training for runners. |
