As both a physiotherapist and a passionate runner, I’ve clocked up my fair share of miles on the road, trails, and yes, the trusty treadmill. As a lover of the outdoors, I used to see the treadmill as a last resort, something to endure rather than embrace. However, I’ve come to appreciate it as a powerful training tool with distinct advantages. Whether you’re recovering from injury, targeting specific training goals, or simply trying to stay consistent, treadmill running offers more than just a dry, predictable surface.
Convenience: No Excuses, Just Run
Okay, I’m lucky, I have one right in my workplace. I can literally roll off my chair and onto the treadmill, no excuses. Life is hectic, juggling a busy clinic, playing taxi driver to my kids while trying to find time to run. The treadmill eliminates many of these barriers. No need to plan routes, worry about daylight, or dodge traffic. At the end of a clinic, I can jump on the treadmill with minimal fuss, although sometimes admittedly with the aid of an energy drink.
Precision: Control Your Tempo and Threshold
A clear advantage of the treadmill is the ability to pace yourself with almost annoying accuracy. Whether I’m training at tempo, threshold, or grinding through hill workout, the treadmill is like having a personal pacer. This level of control is particularly useful for interval sessions. Without the natural variations of sodden fields, rogue headwinds or evading frisky cattle you can focus purely on hitting your target pace, heart rate, or effort level.
Weather-Proof Training
Sometimes, Buckinghamshire weather just doesn’t cooperate. Heavy rain, icy roads, strong winds, or (albeit rarely) oppressive heat can swing my enthusiasm to utter reluctance. The treadmill offers me a reliable, safe alternative, ensuring I don’t miss key sessions due to adverse conditions.
When recovering from injury, avoiding slippery or uneven surfaces during the winter months can be critical. The treadmill’s predictable environment reduces the risk of falls or sudden changes in footing.
Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
My training block last year for the Nice-Cannes marathon was derailed by a stubborn Achilles injury. The treadmill, with its cushioned belt, reduces impact forces compared to hard pavement. It also allows for gradual progression. I managed my return with slow, controlled efforts and steadily built speed, incline and duration.
Me Time: The Ultimate Escape
With two vociferous teenage kids, I don’t usually get to choose the playlist or what’s on TV. Time on the treadmill is sacred, undisturbed ‘me time’ my music, my pace, and occasionally a guilt-free box set binge on the tablet. Result.
Final Thoughts
While nothing beats the feeling of fresh air and the stunning Chiltern trails, the treadmill is far more than a rainy-day backup plan. It’s a versatile, effective training tool that offers convenience, control, and consistency. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, recovering from an injury, or simply trying to keep your running routine on track, don’t underestimate the benefits of jumping on the treadmill.
Andy McCrea Physiotherapist & Bang Average Runner
