Treadmills

         There seems to be a lot of controversy on the internet over whether or not treadmills can be effective replacements for the outdoors when the weather is simply too harsh. Some say that treadmills don't work your muscles as well because the conveyor belt does the moving for you so you don’t actually have to push yourself forward. Others state that treadmills are easier to run on so it is not giving the runner as effective of a workout. I however am pro-treadmill, and have learned to balance out the cons so that the positives far out way the negatives. 

         In the winter, I have close to zero motivation to go out and get a good run in when the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only does the air outside wreak havoc on any exposed skin on your body, the sidewalks can also be dangerously icy, so even if you are one sure-footed fella, your pace is most surly dropping at least a little as you make your way through an icy patch. This means that in these low temperatures you are not only uncomfortable with itchy legs and tight muscles that are hard to get to stride out, but you are probably not even getting as good as a work out as you would on the treadmill. Treadmills provide an environment in which you would be safer, more likely to run farther given that you are more comfortable,and more able travel easier at a faster pace. 

         A few tips that can help offset the treadmills lacking muscle-building abilities is too set your treadmill to a 1 or 2% incline so that your muscles are getting a little bit more taxing of  a workout. This makes the effects of treadmill running quite similar to that of the outdoors. You could also try to make sure you get outside on the nicer days during the winter so that you can still ensure that you are still working and training all of your leg muscles correctly. In addition, simple body weight exercises can help promote and maintain muscle growth and strength, these exercises can include lunges, squats, and many others that are only a google away!
         If you are one who gets bored easily on the treadmill, try listening to music or setting up your phone on the ledge and watching Netflix! This certainly helps pass the time. Another important point to mention is that treadmills are better for your joints than the unforgiving and harsh concrete of sidewalks. The bounce of the treadmill conveyor helps alleviate some of the impact on your knees and ankles that occurs when one runs. So don't rule out treadmills quite yet! Head to the nearest gym and give them a try first!