Treadmills Aren't All That

Running every day on the treadmill can help you burn calories and get a good sweat on, but limits how well you will do on the trail. It also robs you of necessary development of the hamstrings and glutes by pulling your foot behind you as compared to outdoor "real world" running where you propel yourself forward by pushing off the ground and creating forward motion, but as every trail runner knows, hardly ever in a straight line. On a treadmill you are essentially lifting your back foot forward then cushioning the impact with your knees in a steady and repetitive manner. Your muscles won't fully contract to pull the front leg back behind you again. While I am not saying you should quit running on the treadmill, I am definitely saying that you should vary your cardiovascular machine workouts. Get away from the boring same-all-the-time run and play with incline, speed, and additions like ankle or hand weights. Your body might be shocked by a bigger change like a variation in cardio machine such as the elliptical or spin bike. Be sure to also set aside some time to get in the weight room and work those hammys and glutes. Schedule a session or two with me or another ACB trainer if you aren't sure what direction to take your workouts other than away from the treadmill.

Fitness Minded

Just a quick note to let tell you all about the online, local news-source called On the Go-Go. Check out my first blurb - Fitness Minded. This week's article is just an introduction of my addition to the group. The articles will be more informative and interesting in the weeks to come! Plus, there are quite a few other interesting sections On the Go-Go is covering. Check it out and happy reading!