I should technically save this kind of a post for my training recap, but since I usually focus on long runs for those, I think it’s safe to post this here.
If you’ve been following along, you know I’ve been completing my midweek training runs on the treadmill. The treadmill is a controversial machine. Some love it, some hate it. Some love to hate it, and some hate to love it. Most people look into treadmill hire with the hopes of falling in love with indoor exercise. I happen to be one of the very few that falls somewhere in the middle. I like the treadmill. It’s in the comfort of my own home, I get to wear shorts and a tank top and not layer ten million things on at once, and if I slip and fall it won’t be because of unseen ice or uneven sidewalk. If you feel as though you could benefit from using a treadmill, you may want to click here to see what options you have in regard to acquiring one. Owning a treadmill could allow you to achieve your fitness goals without even leaving the house.
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| This is my weather. All day, every day. |
Running on the treadmill has it’s ups and downs. Sometimes I get so lost in thought that not only do the miles fly by, but I end up running at a much faster pace than intended. Or I’ll get in the zone and start thinking about things that make me sad — like missing my family, or my BFF all the way in Cali — sometimes to the point of tears welling up in my eyes.
Other times on the treadmill I can’t lose myself in thought at all and every mile is agonizing. 3-4 miles are usually no problem. The trouble begins when I’m facing 6+ miles on the treadmill. Then my head doesn’t stay in the game and I can’t zone out. I don’t have a TV in the basement to watch for distraction. It’s just me, my music, my thoughts, and my scenery. I have good days and bad days.
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| Is it spring yet? |
I do some of my best blogging while I’m on the treadmill. Unfortunately it’s usually around mile 2 and by the time I get to mile 6, I forgot what I was thinking about. Go figure.
I must say, though, despite the tough runs and occasional boredom, I get some valuable “alone time” on the ‘mill. It keeps me honest. Sane. Happy.
Admittedly, it kills me seeing amazingly beautiful photos of people doing yoga or running trails in the warm sunshine on my Facebook and Instagram feeds. I can’t wait until that’s me. When is it my turn?!
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| Because who the hell is running in these temps? Not this girl. |
I will say this: I’m more than thankful I have a treadmill to run throughout the winter. It can be incredibly boring but without it, I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am in terms of training — or sanity as a stay-at-home-mom.
So tell me… how do you feel about the treadmill? Do you love it or hate it?
xo
