I use to manually control the speed and incline of my treadmill. I guess it was a control thing. I work for myself and I don’t like people telling me what to do. Except of course my wife (In case you are reading this Dear!). Therefore, I had issues with the programs on my treadmill. I didn’t want a machine telling me when to run faster or at a steeper incline. I preferred to set my own pace in life.
The problem was, I was getting into a rut. I ran at around the same speed and the same incline, with minor variations. It was very boring, and I wasn’t burning anymore calories, nor was I getting any toner.
So I started using some of the programmed workouts that were installed on my treadmill. I found I was kicking up my exercise. It was becoming more challenging. And if there is an indication I am getting a better workout, it was the fact that I was sweating bullets.
Now I have a new routine, evertime I exercise I use a different program. They include the cardio, weightloss, strength, interval and hill climbing programs. I find the weightloss is the one that kicks my butt, however, the interval program is a proven method to get more results in less time. You go from intervals of fast/steep to slow/level paces.
The fact is, running or walking in place is about as exciting as listening to George Bush speak. But when you add new challenges it is more like listening to Obama. And if you feel challenged and motivated you are probably going to burn more calories and get toned.
It is also important to constantly set new benchmarks. Don’t fall into a rut. If you are completing a program at the current level with moderate ease, kick it up a notch or two. To achieve your fitness goals you need to do more than go through the motions.
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