Treadmill running - Beginners

Jo Limb

11/10/2012 at 12:35

I want to start running but I have small children that I can' leave alone and can't always get a sitter. Can the beginners schedule be on a treadmill for the times I cannot get out in the fresh air.

stutyr

11/10/2012 at 12:56

Yes.

Its worth getting outside if you can, but a treadmill is still a valid way to get the miles in.

Jo Limb

11/10/2012 at 16:50

Thankyou I will start tonight.

Fiona J

11/10/2012 at 16:53

Jo - I did most of a couch to 5K type programme on the treadmill. It makes it a bit easier in terms of where you finish. I was never quite sure where to go to ensure that I didn't have a long walk home. Definitely try to get outside sometimes as the treadmill can be quite boring and it is a tougher outside as you have to deal with a less than flat surface plus the weather.

All the best. Remember it takes time to get used to running so try to persevere when the going is tough.

Debra Bourne

11/10/2012 at 17:06

Absolutely. Usual advice is to put the treadmill onto a 1% incline to slightly increase resistance because inside you're not getting wind resistance.

Jo Limb

11/10/2012 at 19:16

Thanks again. I've just started training at my local athletics club as they have sessions for families which is ideal for me as I can take my son who is loving it. We do a variety of exercises for two hours twice a week which is helping with my core fitness and has made me realise how unfit I have become. So to help me reach my goal of 5k run next year I thought that in between these sessions I could use the treadmill but people have told me to stay away from treadmills. My thoughts are something is better than nothing. I really appreciate you all taking time to reply.

Cinders

11/10/2012 at 20:08

Jo, do what's best for you. A lot of people will say stay away and get outside but that's not always practical. I used my treadmill a lot when jnr was first born and Mr worked in London so I didn't have childcare.

Silvertop

12/10/2012 at 13:43

I bought a treadmill just recently after my normal running routine was disrupted by work/ family commitments/ dark nights etc. (the usual stuff). I thought it would be boring but I can honestly say its been great fun and gives me a more intense workout in a shorter time than running outside. Don't get me wrong I miss the fresh air and the countryside but as a form of exercise it's great. AND the most important thing is I can fit in 20 to 30mins anytime, even if it's just me and the kids when my wife is out. It's very convenient.

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