Why Do I Get So Bored When On The Treadmill?
Table of Contents
Introduction
I ask myself the same question at times. There are various reasons for this and this article will shed some light on those. You will find it an informative read and it will help you to inform your future choices regarding cardio.
Why Do I Get So Bored When On The Treadmill?
Some treadmills have screens for entertainment but others do not. This lack of entertainment can also make using the treadmill more boring. In addition, you don’t benefit from being outside in nature like you do when going for walks or runs.
There is an increased feeling of social isolation when you are using the treadmill. This is true even if there are lot of people running on the treadmills close to you.
In addition, using the treadmill can be boring if you have no direction or plan of progression. If you stick with the same settings every time then the treadmill will become quite boring for you.
Monotonous
Using the treadmill can be very monotonous. I use the treadmill regularly for incline walks at the end of sessions, but I never look forward to it.
If you prefer a form of cardio that is more enjoyable, then going for long walks or bike rides in nature would be better for you. Treadmills make a familiar noise which stays constant.
I actually find the elliptical slightly more exciting than the treadmill. This is because you can move your arms and legs at the same time. Many ellipticals have interesting challenges that you can do as well.
One way to make using treadmills more exciting is to have a workout partner use one next to yours. This would be better suited for lower intensity cardio, this way you can be social and have a better overall experience.
Listening to your own music can also help you to get lost in your own world when using the treadmill. This can make the treadmill more enjoyable for you.
Limited Entertainment
Some more advanced treadmills do have functionality to enable a bit more interaction and make the workouts more fun. However, most don’t have this capability.
Typically on most treadmills, you can adjust the incline and speed settings. But there isn’t a lot more functionality on top of this. This limited interactivity and entertainment that most treadmills offer can make workouts boring.
Predictable
Treadmill sessions can be predictable and boring. Typically, you will stick to the same settings and go through the motions. Also a lot of treadmills only go up to a certain level of incline.
Once you have reached the max incline setting you can’t go any higher. The speeds are varied enough to suit the majority of people. If you alter your workout sessions and use different settings it can help somewhat.
If you do the same workout on the treadmill every time then it can get predictable and boring. To keep things fresh you have to set challenges for yourself. Aim to go for extra time on a particular incline and speed setting.
This will give you more of a challenge and a feeling of accomplishment afterwards. Making progress is always a good thing and can make you feel proud of your efforts.
Social Isolation
When you are on the treadmill alone it can make you feel more isolated. If you are listening to a podcast or some good music, this can help make you feel more connected.
Doing your cardio outside in nature is the best for mental wellbeing. As you are free to roam around and there is a sense of adventure associated with this exploration.
In addition, you can socialise with people outside. This can make outdoors cardio more enjoyable. In order to feel less isolated when using the treadmill, you can do lower impact cardio workouts with friends using treadmills next to you.
Try Other Forms Of Cardio In The Gym
An easier way of making cardio more varied and exciting, and relieving boredom is to try various forms of cardio in the gym.
If you rotate between using the rower, elliptical, treadmill and bike you will instantly look forward to your cardio sessions.
Variety is the spice of life and each of these forms of cardio present opportunities for challenges and progression.
In my case, I enjoy using the elliptical as well as the rower. I don’t use the stationary bike much nowadays. I like the elliptical as you are moving your arms and legs and there are various challenging workouts to try on the elliptical.
The rower is also a great form of cardio and is tough on the highest setting. You can vary your rowing sessions by switching between shorter duration more intense rowing and longer duration sessions at lower intensity.
If You Hate Cardio You’re Doing The Wrong Form!
If you hate cardio then it will be more difficult for you to make it a consistent part of your routine. Having more fun while doing cardio will allow it to become a more sustainable part of your lifestyle long term.
In Lee’s case he enjoys cycling outdoors with his family. This is an example of a very enjoyable form of cardio with a social element built into it. If you don’t like cycling then you can walk or jog in nature instead.
Group fitness classes in the gym are another way to do cardio in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
Final Thoughts
This is especially true if you are doing the same workout on the treadmill every time. You have to change things up and give yourself new challenges.
Varying your forms of cardio is one of the best ways to reduce boredom and make your workouts more fun.
If you have any comments about the treadmill please leave them below. As always, stay safe and enjoy your training!
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