Treadmills are one of the most popular pieces of exercise equipment and will commonly feature a variety of computer controls. These controls are designed to adjust the speed and the incline of the belt while measuring workout performance in such areas as time, calories burned, pace and distance. As an added feature, treadmills also feature pre-programmed workout routines that provide a starting point for your workout routine. The best pre-programmed workouts, however, help you reach your fitness goals.
Intervals
One of the most important aspects to a successful treadmill workout is changing the speed. As a result, most treadmills will feature pre-programmed interval workouts that automatically adjust speed and incline after a gradual warm-up. The intervals incorporate alternating periods of hard intensity followed with a recovery period and will continue for the specified time frame. You also have the option to adjust speed and incline during the workout to match your current fitness level, but this is limited to 5 percent variance in incline.
Heart Rate
Treadmills will commonly feature built-in heart rate monitors and will incorporate the heart rate into pre-programmed workouts. The heart rate controlled workouts are designed to improve cardiovascular health and function based on your fitness level. These workouts require a heart rate monitor that typically involves a strap that wraps around the chest and sends heart rate information wirelessly to the treadmill. During the workout, the treadmill will automatically adjust to keep your heart rate in the specified target heart rate zone, based on age.
Custom
Custom workouts give you the opportunity to create a workout, based specifically on your running, fitness or weight loss goals. For example, if you are training for a 5K race or marathon and want to achieve a specific time, you can create a workout that trains the specific pace. If an upcoming race features hills, you can create a program that focuses on steep incline runs. Consult a personal fitness trainer for treadmill training tips or a custom workout plan.
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