The treadmill, a cardio favorite in gyms everywhere, but sometimes this favorite can get boring. That doesn’t have to be the case, there are an array of exercises you can do other than just walk or run. If you get on the treadmill and just can’t wait to get off, try mixing it up with some of these moves that’ll have you rethinking your treadmill routine.
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Shuffle Sideways- While standing to the side on the treadmill with legs bent, bring the speed of the machine up slowly. Side shuffle quickly, touching foot to foot, moving sideways. Be careful to land easy on the balls of your feet. Switch sides and repeat. Start slow but as you gain experience you can make this workout a challenge by upping the speed and resistance.
Benefits: This move can help work your hips and thighs, tone calves, and is still a great cardio workout.
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Reverse Climb- Walk backward on the machine at a low incline and speed, holding onto the rails at first. Once you’re comfortable enough, continue walking backwards without holding the side rails. You can increase the incline and rate of speed as you become more experienced.
Benefits: Walking in reverse can help boost heart rate, strengthen quads and glutes, and workout those calves.
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Raise Your Hands- Walk briskly on the machine and raise your arms over your head. Move your arms in an up and down motion throughout your routine.
Benefits: Great for getting your heart rate going.
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Lunges- With your feet about the width of your hips apart, turn up machine speed slowly. Step forward with your right leg and lower body at a 90-degree angle with your hands together at your chest. Rise and bring back foot forward in a forward motion, changing legs each time you step.
