How To Use A Treadmill (For Beginners)

If this is your first time using a treadmill, congratulations! A treadmill is an excellent way to get fit and an ideal exercise machine for beginners. Treadmills are perfect for users of all shapes, sizes, ages, and skill levels because they offer so many workout options. Most treadmills also come with some form of a deck support system to make working out easy on the joints. However, before hopping on your treadmill, there are a few things to keep in mind that will make your workout safer and more enjoyable.

See Our Video Explanation Of How Beginners Can Use a Treadmill

If you are using a folding treadmill, make sure that the deck is completely reclined and locked in place. Folding treadmills are excellent space savers, but you have make sure the deck is clicked in place before running or walking of things can go wrong. In addition, whether you have a folding or non-folding treadmill, it’s important to ensure that the machine is on a stable and flat surface. If you are using the treadmill in your home, double check to make sure the machine isn’t on the corner of a rug, or another uneven surface.

After stabilizing the treadmill, check that the emergency key is in place. If the key isn’t in place, the machine simply will not start. So before you think the machine is broken, double check this feature. Once this key is in place, you are almost ready to go! Next, check the start key. Most treadmills feature a Quick Start key that allows you to simply start the machine with the push of a button, but it depends on the model. One suggestion is to stand on the side rails of the machine before pushing the start button so that you can determine how fast it will start and then safely get on the treadmill at a pace that is safe and comfortable for you.

Becoming familiar with the console and handrails is also essential. Depending on the model and brand of treadmill, the controls could be directly on the console, built into the arms, or even built in with motion sensor controls. It’s important to know where the speed, incline, and other controls are located before getting started because this is not something you want to be fumbling for while in motion. Other things to familiarize yourself with are the entertainment options (if you have them). For example, know where the headphone jack and audio port are located and how they work so you are not messing with a pile of cords and struggling to get your music started.

Perhaps the most important buttons to find before getting started are the stop key and speed dial, so that you can safely slow or stop the machine if something happens while working out. And once you have used your treadmill for a while, you can try out interval training (knowing the speed and incline controls will be crucial to making fast and efficient changes while in motion). If you are a beginner, learning to use a treadmill before getting started will make your workout experience more enjoyable and ensure that you get the best results. If you are looking for a good, reliable entry-level treadmill to get you started, check out some of our best buy treadmills to find the right one for you. These are all strong machines, many of which are perfect for someone just getting started with a treadmill workout regimen.