Treadmills Tips

Once you've bought what you think is the best treadmill for your home workout regime, your choices aren't over. Making the best use of your new home treadmill is about more than just climbing aboard and doing whatever you're in the mood for. There are tips on how to maximize your treadmill workout to burn the most calories and build up the most muscles in the least amount of time.

Here are a few clues.

Don't worry if you feel uncomfortable at first on your treadmill. We've all heard the expression, "feel like I'm on a treadmill" and it's generally meant in a negative context, meant to say that we're always hurrying and scurrying around but making no progress. So, it's natural to feel like a treadmill regimen is a strange non-productive task. Also, if a strong part of your inclination to walk is because you love to get outside and feel the breeze in your hair, the sun on your face and listen to the birds sing, you're going to be disappointed when you first start taking your "walk" on your indoor treadmill.

But, a treadmill is a perfect refuge when you need your exercise but can't go outdoors for whatever reason - weather, after-dark danger, or lack of a safe comfortable walking area.

There are times, too, when you just don't have the time that it takes to get in your car and drive to your favorite track.

If you have an open area - someplace with plenty of light, or windows that open, or even a partially covered outdoor deck - you might consider that for your treadmill activity.  You could, for example, purchase a very portable treadmill - one that folds away under your bed, and during good weather take it out on the deck, and in bad weather bring it inside and do your treadmill routine in front of the TV or within hearing of the stereo.

Start your treadmill regimen by walking, and use the handrails only until you are used to the treadmill's movements. Work gradually up to five mph and stay there until you're very comfortable with your treadmill and the paces it puts you through.

Never use your treadmill's handrails when you're running. Run in the middle of the belt.

Crank up your favorite music - something that you can move to the beat of, something that gets your blood racing and your endorphins going. Don't try to sing, though. You'll need your breath.

To use your treadmill to ready your body for outdoor workouts on irregular and traditional road pavements increase your treadmill's elevation gradually. This gives you the same effect that resistance from the wind would bring while you're running outside. 

While you're on your treadmill your arms should not swing outwards or you throw your posture off. Don't look down, either - look straight ahead.