Contents
- 1. Change up your scenery.
- 2. Add some incline.
- 3. Turn up the tunes.
- 4. Incorporate some strength training.
- 5. Add in some high-intensity interval training
- 6. Make it a social event
- 7. Set some goals
- 8. Take advantage of technology
- 9. Incorporate an online personal trainer
- 10. Invest in new running shoes
- Conclusion
- FAQs
If you’re like most runners, you probably have a love-hate relationship with the treadmill. It’s a great way to get in a quick, effective workout when the weather outside is less than ideal. But it can also be pretty boring. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep your treadmill routine from getting too monotonous.
1. Change up your scenery.
If you normally run on a treadmill at the gym, try running outside instead. Or, if you typically run outdoors, try running in a different location – the beach, a park, etc.
2. Add some incline.
Most treadmills (not all treadmills, but most) have an incline feature that allows you to simulate running uphill. This not only makes your run more challenging but also helps to engage different muscle groups.
3. Turn up the tunes.
Create an upbeat playlist of your favourite songs to help motivate you during your run. Studies have shown that listening to music can help improve athletic performance, so make the most of it!
4. Incorporate some strength training.
Take advantage of the fact that you’re already at the gym by adding some strength-training exercises to your routine. For instance, you could do squats or lunges while holding dumbbells during your warm-up or cool-down periods. Not only will this help break up the monotony of your run, but it will also help improve your overall fitness level.
5. Add in some high-intensity interval training
Interval training is a great way to add some excitement to your run while also boosting your fitness level. HIIT involves alternating periods of high-intensity exercise with periods of low-intensity or rest. For example, you could sprint for 30 seconds and then walk for 60 seconds. Not only will this make your run more interesting, but it will also help you to torch calories and improve your cardiovascular health. All in all, an interval workout is a great way to avoid that next boring workout.
If you typically run solo, invite a friend or family member to join you next time. Running with someone else can help make the time fly by and may even give you someone to compete with (in a friendly way!).
7. Set some goals
One of the best ways to stay motivated is to set some specific goals – and then work towards achieving them. Whether it’s running a certain distance in a certain amount of time or reaching a certain number of steps per day, having some tangible goals to strive for can make all the difference in sustaining your enthusiasm for running on the treadmill (or anywhere else!).
8. Take advantage of technology
Many newer models of treadmills come equipped with built-in entertainment features, like TVs and virtual reality display screens that allow you to escape into another world as you run. If your treadmill doesn’t have any bells and whistles like this, no problem – you can still bring along your own technology in the form of a smartphone or tablet loaded with movies, TV shows, games, etc., to help make time fly by. Just be sure not to get so caught up in what you’re watching that you forget about your surroundings and end up injuring yourself!
9. Incorporate an online personal trainer
If you’re looking for more of a challenge or want to take your treadmill running workouts to the next level, consider working with an online personal trainer. It can be tough to stay motivated when you’re working out on your own, but having someone cheering you on and helping you reach your fitness goals can make all the difference.
An online personal trainer can create a customized workout plan for you based on your specific fitness goals and help you stay on track by providing regular feedback and support. Plus, they can help to keep your workouts interesting by mixing things up and keeping you motivated.
10. Invest in new running shoes
Sometimes all you need to jump-start your motivation is a new pair of running shoes. When your shoes are worn out, they can no longer provide the support and cushioning that they once did, which can lead to injury. If it’s been a while since you’ve replaced your running shoes, why not treat yourself to a new pair before your next treadmill run?
Conclusion
So, ‘how do I keep my treadmill interesting’ – with a little effort and imagination, it is possible to transform even the most mundane treadmill workout routine into an exciting and enjoyable experience. By changing up your scenery, adding some incline, turning up the tunes, incorporating strength training, making it social, setting goals, and taking advantage of technology, you can take your treadmill workouts to new heights!
FAQs
What is a ladder workout, and will it add new interest to my routine, giving my cardio equipment a rejuvenated lease of life?
A ladder workout is a type of interval training that alternates between different levels of intensity. For example, you might start with a light jog for one minute, then increase the intensity to a run for two minutes, and then decrease the intensity back to a jog for one minute. This pattern can be repeated for as long as you like and can be a great way to add some variety and interest to your cardio routine. Plus, it’s an excellent way to challenge yourself and see improvements in your fitness level over time.
It’s simple, just get that right foot to follow your left foot, and you’re away!
What is speed play, and will it help relieve the boredom of treadmill time?
Yes, interval training or speed play is a great way to break up the monotony of a long run on the treadmill. For example, you could start by running at your usual pace for five minutes and then increase the speed for 60 seconds. After the minute is up, slow back down to your usual pace and continue running for another five minutes. You can repeat this process as many times as you like or until you reach your desired distance. Not only will this help to break up the boredom, but it will also give you a great workout!
