Treadmill running

FiddleFit

FiddleFit

Cathlete
This is a question for those who run on treadmills - and like it.

I bought a treadmill after Christmas, and I really find running on it to be uncomfortable. It's non-motorized, and the incline is not adjustable. All I wanted it for was to provide me with a means to do the bit of running that Cathe puts into her rotations. (I live in a winter climate, and have two very young children, so running outside is not really an option most of the time). I used to do a lot of outdoor running and I do enjoy that, but when I run on the treadmill it is so uncomfortable that I am aware of every passing second. The treadmill has a bit of an incline, and I find that I'm landing toe-heel, rather than heel-toe. This can't be good. I also can't control the speed very well. If I let go of the handles I find myself falling off the back because I can't keep up with the speed of the belt.

I've used it about 4 times now, and it has gotten a bit better, but not enough that I care to ever use it again. Does anyone have any suggestions or advice? Or is my treadmill just too basic, and I should put it in my bedroom and use it to hang my clothes on?

I'm thinking of buy the Cardio Coach cds to help out, but don't want to waste the money on them if the problem is really the treadmill. Also, what's the music in the CC cds like?

Thanks!
Sandra
 
Sandra - I hate to say it but it sounds to me like the problem is really the treadmill. If your footing is off and the incline is not adjustable and not to your liking, I don't think any amount of Cardio Coach is going to help you like it better. Treadmills are pretty boring, but useful, but it sounds like yours is extra work and you're not comfortable running on it.

Sorry!
 
Sandra-I have to agree with Shelley. I couldn't imagine running on a treadmill that was not automatic, as in you don't have to power it because it powers itself sabed on the speed you set it at. Does that make sense? (I'm talking in circles).

Good luck.

Gayle
 
Just a quick comment here: I think most runners tend to land ball of the foot first, followed by the heel. I couldn't imagine keeping a good pace by landing heel first -- also I think it could be harsh on your legs. Have you tried ball first?
 
Oh dear, really? I thought proper form was to heel-ball-toe it? Landing ball first would put a lot of stress on the knees, wouldn't it? I'm going to have to pull out my old running books and see what they say about this!

Shelley and Gayle - thanks for your opinions. I guess you get what you pay for, hey? I wish I could afford one of those $1000 treadmills, but that's not in the cards until I GET A JOB!!!! x(

Sandra
 
Sandra, I also have to agree with the other posters. There is nothing like high-end equipment to make your workout fun. I am so spoiled by the Trotters at the gym that whenever I try a home treadmill I just hate it. I would return the treadmill and get a gym membership if you can, or spend a bit more on a treadmill and pay it off over time if possible.
-Nancy
 
Yep, it's the treadmill. I've never heard anybody that had one of those non motorized treadmills that liked it. It just makes your running too difficult and stressful.

I only paid $600 for my Proform treadmill from Sears and it has lasted me about 10 years now. I love running on it. Of course, nothing beats being outside, but the weather here in the winter is not condusive to outside running, so my treadmill gets lots of use!
 
Sandra-I bought a ProForm from Modell's over a year ago, paid just over $500 after a good coupon. I LOVE MY TREADMILL. It got me thru the majority of my marathon training this past Fall and Winter and I LOVE IT TODAY!

Also, like somebody else mentioned above (sorry, forgot who said it already), I think most runners land toe first as well, but may not realize it. I do, but NEVER thought I did. When I had the running store employees (also coaches) look at my old pair of sneakers, the treads told them I land toe first. They also said it BEST and MOST NATURAL for the body when you land that way. WHO KNEW, right? LOL

Gayle

p.s. Oh, see if you have any used sporting goods stores around you (maybe a Play It Again Sports or something similar) that sells used stuff at decent prices.
 
Since you say you cannot afford a new one, You may try to sell your's for some money and then look in your local paper for a slightly used one to save yourself some money. Or try garage sales. My friend got a very pricey model for $100.00. Some people buy one with the intent to use it but then they never do. (No one on this site LOL) Also somethimes floor models from Sears or other equipment stores will be cheaper since they are slightly used. My mom has a non-motorized one that I have tried to use and it is hard like you say.


Jean
 
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