Taking the treadmill plunge.....

[Sweatybetty1971]

So I graduated a few months back and have been finding it increasingly difficult to get out and run, life keeps getting in the way, working long hours and not enjoying running on cold, dark nights

It's come to the point where I am only running once a week and its getting more of a slog each week , so I bit the bullet and bought a treadmill which is arriving soon. Never used one before, any thoughts or tips would be greatly appreciated!!

[AdverseTangent]

Make sure you have a distraction - music or something to watch on your phone as it can be boring otherwise. I prefer the treadmill as it gives me more discipline - no slowing down/stopping for roads etc.

[Sweatybetty1971 Graduate in reply to AdverseTangent]

Music, definitely! I will be able to have music on instead of listening through one earphone, I can't run outside with both in, makes me feel really isolated and vulnerable and yes a regulated pace may be good for me too!

[Pugwash Graduate]

It sounds like it will be a good solution to your particular situation. I agree fully with AdverseTangent 's reply regarding having a distraction; my personal experience is that treadmill running can quickly become a bit of a slog so I'd add: set goals (distance/time) and mix it up with speed and elevation if your treadmill allows otherwise you'll be using the same muscles in the same way every time. Treadmill running is not quite the same as outside running (it's a little easier) so when able, I'd suggest still getting out there from time to time. Hope this helps and good luck 🙂👍.

[Sweatybetty1971 Graduate in reply to Pugwash]

Thank you for the support, I am hoping to combine the two, getting out to run when I can and using the treadmill to try and better maintain my level of fitness when I can't get out

[topton]

I used to put my laptop in front of me and watch 'virtual running videos' on youtube. Videos made from other peoples head cams from around the world. Music in the headphones or through the laptop and I'd be there lol. Also, if your treadmill doesn't have an incline setting then every 2nd or 3rd run you can pack it up a couple of inches at the front. (safely of course) This makes it a harder run, even at the same speed as before as it's almost like running up hill.

[Sweatybetty1971 Graduate]

Watching other people's scenic runs sounds awesome, will definitely give that a go and while my treadmill isn't posh enough for an automatic incline it does have some manual incline settings so I wont need to put it up on bricks!