Treadmills are one of the most common exercise machines available. Whether they are used at the gym or at home, treadmills have become the ultimate exercise solution for numerous health conscious individuals. With this handy exercise machine at home, you no longer have to worry about not being able to take out time to go to the gym, or missing your daily run due to unsuitable weather. For those who are too shy to work out in the presence of other people, the treadmill provides the optimal solution by allowing them to exercise in the privacy of their homes.

Treadmills may seem like a fairly simple machine to use, but what most people don’t know is that there are numerous treadmill problems that can unnecessarily strain your muscles and increase the risks of injuries.

Treadmill Problem #1: Skipping Warm Ups

Some people are under the misconception that they do not need to warm up before starting their treadmill exercise routine. This misconception could lead to cramping and injuries! Treadmill running needs to be preceded by warm up exercises to get the muscles ready for the intense running activity that is to follow.

Treadmill Problem #2: Treadmill Bars

Many people hold onto the treadmill bars while exercising. They may feel more secure and less likely to lose their balance. However, holding onto the bars is quite a problematic habit. It not only leaves you feeling sore after the exercise since your body is constantly leaning over while running, but it also prevents your upper body from engaging fully in the exercise.

Treadmill Problem #3: Moving Treadmill

Stepping off a moving treadmill is a bad idea to say the least! Not only do you increase the chances of losing your balance, slipping and injuring yourself, but you also skip the crucial cool down period that should follow every treadmill exercise routine.

Treadmill Problem #4: Skipping Cool Downs

Neglecting cool downs is another bad habit that needs to be rectified right away. Stopping your exercise routine without allowing the treadmill to slow down can lead to dizziness and cramping. Always slow your treadmill to a walk to cool down and bring your heart rate back to normal.

Treadmill Problem #5: Keeping Arms in Check

With the treadmill belt moving beneath your feet, it is easy to forget about your arms. Instead of leaving them hanging at the sides or holding the treadmill bars, use your arms to obtain maximum benefits from your workout! Sway your arms as you move your feet to give your body a full workout and also to avoid losing your balance and slipping.

Treadmill Problem #6: It’s All In The Stride

It is imperative to find your comfortable stride when exercising. The fast moving treadmill belt can leave some people flustered. They usually resort to taking short, quick steps which increases their chances of losing their balance and slipping. Think about your strides when you run on solid ground. Then try to implement those strides when you are exercising on the treadmill.

Treadmill Problem #7: Physical Limits

You might be extremely passionate about shaping up, but pushing yourself too far can have a range of negative consequences including aches, pains, sores and possible injuries. As soon as you feel like your body cannot handle anymore, stop the workout and take a break. Also remember to keep a water bottle handy to ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the workout.

Conclusion

Treadmill workouts are a great way to stay in shape and take care of your fitness. However, these treadmill problems need to be kept in mind to ensure that you do not injure or harm yourself.

References

RunAddicts.net: Ten Common Treadmill Running Problems: runaddicts.net/tips-tricks/ten-common-treadmill-running-problems
Running.about.com: Common Treadmill Running Mistakes running.about.com/od/treadmillrunning/ss/treadmillmistakes.htm
Selfgrowth.com: Tips for treadmill workouts