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Treadmill Walking

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated: June 15, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Treadmills are the most popular home exercise equipment, with 33% of the sales, according to Sporting Goods Business magazine. They are also effective. The treadmill ranked number one among exercise machines in burning calories (up to 865 an hour) at a perceived exertion intensity levels according to a 1996 study at the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee. Come find out how to choose the model that is right for you and how to use it in your workout.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Pros:
  • Convenience
  • Climate control - no rain, wind, cold, heat.
  • Safety - no traffic, muggers, trail hazards.
  • Multi-tasking: read, watch TV, listen to music, monitor family.
  • Treadmill workouts burn as many calories as walking outdoors.
Cons:
  • Does not train balance muscles as well as walking on an uneven surface, negotiating curbs, etc. This is important as we age, it helps prevent falls and broken hips.
  • Boredom factor higher than with outdoor workouts.

Treadmill Workouts

Any walking workout can be used on the treadmill.

20 Best Treadmill Workouts Dave McGovern in Walking Magazine describes how to get a good indoor workout.

Walking Music/Video Stay entertained while working out.

NEXT > Before You Buy a Treadmill | Reviews | Manufacturers and Retail Sites

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