The benefits of working out are amazing - we all know this - but somehow, we just don't follow through with it. Perhaps, we will feel as if we are missing out on something else while working out.
Hence, I present to you - 7 Ways to spend 1 Hr on the Treadmill!
1. Jamming Playlist (of course). This is the #1 way most runners make it through the course - listening to a playlist that transcends time. After one hour of exercising, there are still a few good songs you'd like to listen to which could help you sustain your walk/run even further.
2. Reading - Books are life as far as I'm concerned. I buy books with the sole intent of cracking the pages open - where? None other than the glorious treadmill. I'm telling you - books have the power to allow you to escape. Yes, your feet are moving, and your breathing is at a pant, and your heart rate is elevated, but your Mind - oh your mind - it's in a metaphysical state of bliss. Yes, reading has that power. Read whatever interests you. Caution: It's really not a good time for required academic readings. It's time, rather to fill your mind with words that romance your soul.
3. Talking on the Phone - Stack your "To Call" list with about two to three good friends - the chatty types - the ones that will talk more than you. Yes, they are poor listeners as they make the conversation all about them; however, are they good to help the time fly by on the treadmill. Chat on, Fittie, Chat on!
4. Skype/Facetime w/ a Walking Buddy - Realtime conversation is even better. Do you find that you aren't keeping in touch with friends or relatives as much as you'd like? Well, I couldn't think of a better way to spend an hour with two for one benefits than to connect with friends and relatives face to face while exercising. What is even better is if that friend/relative is also on his/her treadmill during this connection. How awesome! Now you have a support buddy walking right beside you, figuratively speaking. This is for light walking only. Not sure how a jogging connection would go. But even if you incorporated a walk/run regimen, you could easily run one minute then skype for the next four to five minutes. You've got to believe me: Time will pass and your one hour will be over.
5. Youtube Videos - I confess! This is how I spend most of my treadmill time. I've recently become a nutritarian, so I spend an ungodly amount of time listening to the masters of raw food and the nutritarian lifestyle (Shout out to Dr. Furhman for saving my life with this information - Love you/Bless you!). I'm usually searching for the benefits of beets or wheatgrass or spirulina or such and such. Oh, and the longer videos, which are usually annoying because they are so looonggg, make great treadmill partners. Check it out for yourself.
6. Netflix - There are a plethora of documentaries to keep you occupied, and a host of past season shows. On the treadmill is how I became acquainted with "The Braxton Family Values" - like, when would I ever have time to just find a random show on Netflix and watch it? uh, NEVER!!! I also found my new favorite treadmill pastime - "The Medium". While walking, I've watch "Vegucated" and other health documentaries. So, not only am I exercising my body, but I'm exercising my mind with provocative thoughts about the lifestyle I used to live and the one I'm transitioning to now.
7. Prayer/Meditation - Although last, it's not least by any means. Have you considered just quieting your soul. Embracing peace and tranquility on your one hour of fitness. Turn off the cell phone. Put the ipod away. No magazines or movies. Just be. Focus on your breathing and let the Light of God's presence overtake you. Enjoy a conversation with The Creator. A conversation of Thanks is my favorite. Begin where your heart leads you - I'm usually in awe about the amazing way the body functions and the healing power of raw foods - Thank you, Jesus!
Just you and God. Becoming one, becoming friends during this one hour of power.
Get moving, Friends.
The Life Enthusiast!
(Note: For moderate walks, set incline to 2)
