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Treadmill Workouts

Kulbhushaan Raghuvanshi
Treadmills are a popular way to reduce weight and obtain a definite body shape. It is a good option for indoor workouts.
Exercising on a treadmill includes running, jogging, and different walking exercises. These workouts are considered one of the best ways to get in shape and improve cardiovascular fitness. They are considered all-round exercises, which means they burn calories and strengthen your muscle groups at the same time.

For Beginners

If you are new to a treadmill, your exercise program will depend on your current level of fitness, and the sort of treadmills you are using for your workout. In the beginning, these exercises should be done with ease, as the individual may be a novice to exercising.
It involves three main modes: walking, running, and jogging. These are quite easy for beginners.
Most treadmills come with their own exercise plan. The intensity and duration of the workouts should be kept easy and comfortable by beginners. There should be a balance, meaning that they should neither be too intensive, nor too light. Wearing comfortable running shoes and clothes is important.

For Runners

Those who believe in natural exercises will agree that running is one of the best forms of exercise. At times, however, due to bad weather, our daily running routine goes for a toss. Having an exercise equipment like a treadmill at home can be beneficial on such occasions.
Technique #1: This is one of the most tried and tested marathon techniques. As you are running, increase the incline with your speed. Do not time your run until the treadmill is 6% inclined and you are running at a marathon pace.
Try this hill workout 6 times a week. If you are able to do it with ease, then you are ready for your marathon.
Technique #2: This is a very simple and effective technique to burn fat and give you a runner's stamina. Start with a 5 minute brisk walk for warming up. Gradually increase the speed every 3 minutes, or every ½ kilometer.
Technique #3: Most treadmills come with a speed limit of 16 km/h and most runners want to do more than that. Increase your incline to 7% and set a speed of 13 km/h. In order to get more benefit from your treadmill workout, increase the incline, not the speed.
As your incline increases, you will use more energy and stamina for running. This will prepare you for your forthcoming races.

For Women

Women are a busy folk, taking care of their homes and families all through the day. They can, hence, utilize their free time to exercise and keep themselves fit, without going to the gym. History says that women have always been graceful, and hence, treadmill exercises can be done to improve flexibility and shed the extra pounds.
Technique #1: Simply walk backwards on a treadmill. This exercise can help dancers become more graceful and have balance in their bodies. Spend 10 to 15 minutes on this workout and the results will show in a few weeks.
Technique #2: Walking is the first thing that comes to mind when you say the word "treadmill". Set a pace at which you feel comfortable, and walk for 20 minutes. You can start your walk at a speed of 5 km/hr. If you feel like you want a more rigorous workout, increase your speed to 6.5 km/hr. Walking is also a good form of warm up.
Technique #3: A stretch treadmill workout is a mixture of aerobic training and lots of stretching. You can start this workout by walking on the treadmill for 10 minutes. Then step off and begin the stretching exercises for 10 minutes, followed again by walking.
Anybody can use a treadmill to get in shape, or simply for a daily dose of exercise. The only point to keep in mind is, never increase your speed all of a sudden. This may lead to muscle cramps or injury.