Some find treadmill running boring. (Taken from angryjogger.com)
Many runners find that treadmill running is boring. For example, the scenery does not change and you are just running on exactly the same spot for what can feel like eternity.
But if you have no choice but to do your training runs on a treadmill because, for example, the weather is too rainy – then here are some tips to make your treadmill run more interesting.
Run with a Buddy
If you have a friend who is a member of the same gym as you, why not convince him or her to have a run together. By doing this, you will be able to encourage each other as well.
What is more, you don’t have to run at exactly the same pace too – unlike if you are doing an outdoor run with a buddy.
Listen to Music
Because of the boredom on the treadmill, listening to some music will also help you to run for a longer period of time. If you choose your songs appropriately, and pick some uplifting and motivating ones in your playlist, you will be able to keep up the treadmill run for longer than you would probably have done – without the music.
Lose yourself in your rhythm and pace
When you run outdoors, you have to constantly be aware of your surroundings. For example, it is important to keep track of your route. At the same time, you need to watch out for traffic lights, as well as other pedestrians or joggers. If you run at a park, there is also the issue of falling leaves or twigs that you may trip over.
But on a treadmill, you don’t have to think about a single thing. So you have the advantage of simply losing yourself completely in your run. Just go into a relaxed state and block out all the noises and surroundings of the gym. Think of nothing but the sound of your own feet and your running rhythm, and you will probably enjoy the treadmill run a lot more.
Attempt an interval workout
It will shake things up a little on the treadmill if you could set it to an interval workout rather than simply running at a pace that you are comfortable with. For example, you can do five-minute intervals. This can comprise of three minutes of fast running followed by two minutes of easy jogging. On a treadmill, there are buttons that easily enables you to spice up your workout.
Break up your treadmill run
It also helps if you break up your treadmill run and do not spend your entire workout on the treadmill. This can be quite boring. Instead, try and alternate with other cardio machines.
For example, if you want to work out for an hour, don’t do the entire time on the treadmill. Maybe do 10 minutes of treadmill, followed by another 10 minutes on the cardio bike or the elliptical machine. Then return to the treadmill for another 10 minutes and so on – and this will definitely add some spice to your treadmill workout.
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