5 ways to get the most out of your home treadmill

        5 ways to get the most out of

your home treadmill

The biggest fear people have when investing in a home treadmill (or any other exercise machine) is not using it.

You know what it's like: It's delivered, you set it up, you enjoy it for a few days... then you sit back and wait.

A few months go by, you realize how dusty it's gotten and how much space it's taking up, and you remember how much weight you'd like to lose by using it faithfully every day. But unfortunately, now it doubles as a clothes rack.

Fear not, this article will help you to prevent that from happening.

Treadmills are great for overall cardiovascular exercise and are still the number one exercise tool for those who want to lose weight. So, it's an investment in your health that will surely pay off if you want to get the most out of it.

Here are 5 easy ways to get the most out of your treadmill at home.

#1) Do your research first

Look at what each treadmill has to offer and compare it to your individual needs. For example, if you live in a condo or like everything to be neat and clean, a folding treadmill may be the best choice for you. If you want a folding treadmill, would you prefer a manual folding treadmill (like most folding treadmills)? Or would you like a folding treadmill with shock absorbers at the bottom and wheels for easy mobility?

If you like to drink water while exercising, make sure the treadmill console has a water bottle holder (you might be surprised at how many treadmills don't have this feature).

Do you get bored easily and need a challenge? How about a treadmill with many user programs or one that is iFit compatible?

These things may not seem that important and may cost a little bit. But if you actually enjoy your workout, it's worth it.

#2) Place the treadmill in a "good" location. "Happy" means bright, open and stimulating. Don't set it up so that it faces a bare wall when you walk or run. I've tried this and it didn't last long with my workouts. If you get bored quickly, place it opposite a TV or window with a good view while you work out.

A room or area has a certain "vibe" that affects the success of your training sessions. Make sure your treadmill is in a place that makes you feel energized, happy and mentally stimulated. #3) Before the treadmill arrives, prepare your workout arsenal.

Do you like listening to fast music while you work out? Watching your favorite movies? How about reading a magazine? What inspires you to work out and feel your best? If you have these things ready before the treadmill arrives, you're three-quarters of the way there. Get a few workout CDs or your favorite CDs. Get your favorite movies or shows on cassette. Have your favorite magazines ready.

Having your "workout gear" around the treadmill will make you more motivated to work out and will keep you from running around looking for something when you want to start working out. This may seem simple, but it works. Why do you think gyms have magazines, TVs, and CD players?

#4) Make a training plan.

Make sure you have a plan, a “roadmap to a rock hard body” so to speak, before you train. By writing down how long and what types of workouts you will do in week 1, week 2, week 3, week 4, etc., you will set yourself up for success. Remember, every time you work out, you are planting seeds for the dream body you want.

Plan it so you know how many seeds you sow (and how long it will take to see results). Have fun with it, and you will be motivated to achieve your health goals (and get the most out of your treadmill).

#5) Track your progress

Okay, this relates to #4, but it’s more of an ongoing thing. Tracking your progress every day will give you a great sense of accomplishment, which will lead to even more fat burning results.

I recommend setting “minimal goals” like “walk at least 10 minutes” or “last 5-30 second intervals.” These are easy to achieve, which will motivate you. You and yours will feel even more accomplished.

And of course, you’ll get the most out of your treadmill.

Here are 5 ways to get the most out of your treadmill at home. Remember, even a little preparation goes a long way.