This is the view from the treadmill where I do most of my so-called training these days. I'm not sure why I was so opposed to running on treadmills for years, but I've developed a pretty good relationship with the machine lately.
I seem to be more prone to injury when I run in cold temperatures. In fact, I'm pretty certain the distance team had twice as many injuries during the really bad winters when we were forced to run on half shoveled sidewalks for weeks and wear 3 layers of clothing before walking out the door.
Why was the treadmill never really an option? Were people sneaking in treadmill workouts wearing a disguise to avoid the harsh judgment they might face by members of the distance squad?
To be fair, I doubt treadmills in 96 had the TV monitors connected to them and I definitely didn't own an iPhone loaded with podcasts, audio books, and songs purchased for 99 cents. Even with all these entertainment options, I still find myself bored after 10-15 minutes. Luckily I discovered some entertaining podcasts that will hopefully distract me enough for the next 4-6 weeks until it gets warmer and I can run 20-30 min. without shin or knee pain.
I've definitely overcome my skepticism of treadmills. I used to feel like no weather could keep me indoors for running. However, my running wouldn't exist without treadmills now. My neighborhood is impossible to run in while it's dark. Also, I have the matter of being bound to the house by two kids.
ReplyDeleteFunny, I remember winter injuries a little different than Jason. I attributed them to running fast in the Convocation Center. Running as hard as you can around tight turns or even in hallways just can't be good for you. I'd definitely say a treadmill would be a huge improvement over that.
For better or worse, a treadmill tells you exactly how you are doing at all times. When I run outside, I tend to not even wear a watch. That gives me some sense of freedom, but I also have no idea what kind of shape I'm in most of the summer.