Most people think of a treadmill as an exercise device. In reality treadmills were invented over 4,000 years ago and used animal and human power to perform labor intensive tasks like drawing water and grinding grain. For an overview of the history of treadmills: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treadmill
Strangely enough, treadmills were also used in prisons as punishment. Inmates were made to walk on a large vertical wheel like a paddle wheel. They’d walk in drudgery for up to eight hours per day, which equated to climbing 10,000 vertical feet or more. To learn more: http://www.uh.edu/engines/epi374.htm
Treadmill health benefits
Running or walking on a treadmill is one of the healthiest activities anyone can do, especially if it’s done consistently. Some people prefer to run or walk outside because they’re in the fresh air and they might soak up some sunshine. But when all is said and done there are more good reasons for running or walking on a treadmill than doing the same thing outside.
Here are eight good reasons for using a treadmill:
1. Less dangerous. The user isn’t exposed to cars and other obstacles, making running safer.
2. Smooth surface. Running on a consistent surface is easier than running on trails or streets.
3. Weather no obstacle. The user can exercise regularly regardless of the weather.
4. More control. Settings on a treadmill allow for more controlled pacing than running outside.
5. Easier to focus when running on a treadmill because you’re not worried about traffic, obstacles, etc.
6. More fun. Treadmill users can watch TV or read, making walking or running more fun.
7. Lower impact. Treadmills are cushioned, providing lower impact than streets or trails.
8. It’s all uphill. Treadmills can be adjusted for all uphill running, providing a more beneficial run.
In fact, the advantages of using a treadmill are so great that once people start using one they are more inclined to stick with it, meaning they’ll get more consistent health benefits from this very aerobic exercise.
Common health benefits of using a treadmill:
Cardiovascular Benefits
Using a treadmill strengthens your cardiovascular system, making your lungs and heart stronger. Working out on the treadmill three to five times each week for at least 30 minutes each time, can lower your risk of diabetes, cancer and heart disease, and other health problems.
Bone Density Benefits
Weight bearing exercise is best for strengthening bones and preventing and managing osteoporosis. A treadmill is a wonderful way to get this much needed weight bearing exercise on a very consistent basis, without being put off by the weather.
Weight Loss
Working out on a treadmill at the right intensity will burn calories as fast as or faster than the same workout outside, especially if you have the treadmill on more difficult settings.
Improves Range of Motion
A mild walking or light jogging program on a treadmill will assist in loosening joints and regaining flexibility.
Combats Depression and Insomnia
The aerobics gained from using a treadmill helps combat depression and insomnia.
With so many positives, it’s hard to ignore the benefits of using a treadmill. Being able to run and walk in any weather while staying out of traffic is a huge plus. And when you couple this with the excellent cardiovascular and other health benefits, it makes treadmills the obvious choice of active, healthy people.
About the author
Bill Hartzer is a freelance writer based in Texas, and writes for Health Plan News.