If you think all you can do on the treadmill is running, think again. In recent years, many treadmill users have lamented about the limitations of the machine and it has sprouted a list of different kinds of exercises that we can do on it. Some of them may even surprise you!
So if you are looking to change up your treadmill routine on your next gym visit, try these 3 workout styles. Pretty sure you will enjoy them thoroughly!
1. Side shuffles
Simply put, this is your normal running but done sideways. It may look simple to do but it takes a little bit of coordination to get into sync with the routine. The reason is because we are accustomed to running forward on a treadmill and doing so sideways can cause us to lose our balance. This workout, if done well and properly, can allow us to have better coordination and also strengthen our legs and sides. If you feel yourself losing balance though, stop the treadmill or hold on to the bars to steady yourself and continue moving.
2. Walking lunges
Instead of the usual stationary lunges you do in your warm-up, you can do this on a treadmill and mind you, it’s way more challenging because you need to keep moving. Make sure you get your posture right for this to get the most out of your workout. Your knees have to be bent at a 90 degrees angle, and keep a good pace between the movement of both legs. Be kind to yourself and set a pace on the treadmill that is friendly to what you are comfortable with. Don’t go too fast or too slow and just enjoy the rhythm.
3. Walking plank
What is exercise if there is nothing challenging about it, right? If you are a fan of the plank, or have always wanted to try it, this is a version you can do on the treadmill. Although you don’t have to go fast with this one, don’t belittle it. If you thought the normal plank is hard, wait till you try this one out. Basically, you just need to set the treadmill to one to two mph, get into the plank position on it and start walking with your hands, maintaining your posture throughout. Push yourself to see how long you can go on for! You will be amazed by the results!
