Let’s talk about the dreaded treadmill, or as some call it, the “dreadmill.” We all know that running on a treadmill can be a bit boring and stuffy, but it does have its benefits. For starters, it allows us to keep up with our training even when the weather outside is not ideal.

Now, you might be wondering if running on a treadmill is as effective as running outside. Well, according to experts, there are some subtle differences, but overall, it’s just as effective. The only thing to keep in mind is that energy consumption is slightly lower when running on a treadmill, so if you do most of your training on one, it might add up.

Another question that often comes up is whether or not you need to use the incline. The truth is, keeping your treadmill at a zero percent incline is perfectly fine. However, increasing the incline can be useful for hill repeats or to mix up your workouts.

One thing to keep in mind when running on a treadmill is your form. The belt is moving under you, so it’s slightly different from outdoor running. People who are not accustomed to treadmill running may adopt a slightly higher step frequency and land more toward the front of their foot. Also, the stiffness of the treadmill can affect your foot strike and how you run.

Now, let’s talk about how to make treadmill running less boring. One trick is to focus on something else. Cover up the clock on the treadmill, watch a movie or TV show, or listen to a podcast or music that matches the tempo of your run. You can also use treadmill runs as an opportunity to test different types of fuel without worrying about being outside and not having access to facilities.

Finally, remember that miles are miles, no matter where you run them. So don’t be too hard on yourself if you have to do most of your training on a treadmill. It’s all part of the journey.

Happy running!