Why training on the treadmill can increase your running speed injury-free and how you can make the best use of it.
Many runners avoid the treadmill and only use it when the weather outside is extremely unpleasant. However, training on the treadmill offers crucial advantages that go beyond mere weather protection. According to experts like coach Angie Spencer from the Marathon Training Academy Podcast, the treadmill is an excellent tool for working specifically on your speed while protecting your joints at the same time.
For recreational athletes, this is particularly interesting as the treadmill offers a softer surface compared to asphalt. This cushions the impact and protects the joints. In addition, typical obstacles such as potholes, kerbs or traffic lights are eliminated. Because the belt moves by itself, slightly less effort is required for propulsion. Although this makes running feel easier, it allows you to focus fully on your running technique and posture.
According to running coach Shodan Rodney, the treadmill is perfect for demanding pace intervals such as 800-metre or mile repetitions. Once the desired pace is set on the device, the machine keeps the speed constant. You don't have to worry about pacing yourself, you just run along. If you find it hard to motivate yourself alone, group classes are a great option. In a community, it is often easier to push yourself.
However, caution is also advised: if you train on the treadmill several times a week, you should not go to the limit every time. Coach Angie Spencer recommends completing only one high-intensity session per week and taking the remaining runs easy to avoid overuse injuries.
Your takeaway: Use the treadmill specifically for your weekly pace intervals, as the machine keeps the pace for you and you can concentrate fully on your technique.
This article was generated automatically with AI from the sources listed above and has not been editorially reviewed.