Last Friday I decided to skip my morning 5-miler run because it was raining (lame excuse, I know), so I promised myself that I would run 5 miles on the treadmill after work. I got to the gym, pumped myself up, ran 2 miles and had to call it quits. My legs were ITCHING to run — outside. Why I do I always set myself up like this? I gave myself the biggest pep talk, but I just couldn’t bring it. I finished up my workout with 25 minutes on the spin bike. Woomp woomp.
I felt like a loser not being able to put those 3 extra miles in. I mean it’s not like I’m doing super high mileage these days. I SHOULD have been able to crank out 5 on the without a problem – so I vowed to run them on Saturday, with a plan. I call it the “I Hate the Treadmill Workout”:
It’s stupidly simple, but it gets me over the mental block of the treadmill. I ran my 3 in little less than a 9:00/mile pace — and I definitely could have put in a few more (but it was lunch time!).
I am seriously envious of you all who can rock out 10-20-30 miles on a treadmill without a problem. I also **might** think you are insane. For me it takes a huge effort to run more than 3-4 (and the most I’ve done is 8!).
If there is anyone out there like me – this workout is for you, until you can get out there and hit the pavement again. For some reason, I just don’t have any problems running out there!
What helps you power through a treadmill run?
Email
Facebook
Twitter
I don’t think I’ve ever just run at one pace on the treadmill. Ever. Lol. Like you, every time it’s “how can I do this run without scratching my eyes out”. I vary the pace/incline, need loud music, always have to make it intervals or I go nuts.
I think I did 7 once, that was my max!
Yes to all of this! I really think you have to have a mental toughness to love treadmill running. Or maybe I just need to be shorter to enjoy the TV screen?
Ugh, can’t stand the TM. Use to run it a lot, but now cringe at the thought. Furthest was 6 miles. Not sure what I’m going to do when it gets too dark/cold for me to pound pavement after work. Mornings are out, mostly becuase I’m an evening runner, but also it will be dark then too. I hate winter!
You should move to Florida – it’s the only “season” we love