I mentioned how runners like the cooler temperatures for running and how the outfit might add a few accessories to keep the chill out. The weather forecasters predict another very cold front for the coming week, and there may be a few runners that prefer not heading out the door if it is cold outside. There are alternatives to running outside for those runners that want to exercise in more comfort.
One alternative for indoor exercise is the treadmill. This is the same movement as running and can provide a good workout. With a good treadmill, the speed of the belt can be changed from a walking pace to a fast race pace. While the movement is the same, the difference is in the propulsion phase from the feet hitting the ground. With pavement, the runner has to push with the muscles of the legs to move forward. On a treadmill, this muscle action is absent as the belt is moving and the need to push with the legs and feet will not occur. The legs still get a good workout from moving back and forth but just not as much muscle is needed. A personal point on using a treadmill indoors is that the scenery remains the same. Outside, the scenery changes every block and offers a little variety to the run. There are some treadmills that have a video screen to show various running scenes. These treadmills are usually in the high-dollar range, and an alternative to that is to place the treadmill in front of a television with your favorite program on. One point worth mentioning is the use of the handrails on treadmills. It is okay to hang on for balance, but do not lean on them with any weight as that defeats the purpose of a workout.
Another alternative is the stationary bike for an indoor workout. There are several types of stationary bikes available. One style is similar to a regular bike you see people riding. Another style is the recumbent stationary bike, where the person sits down like in a chair and the pedals are out in front. Both use the pedal motion of a bike, and some can be programmed to offer added resistance to the pedals to simulate riding up a hill. The recumbent is the most comfortable with a sitting position. The same problem with indoor stationary bikes is the same as the treadmill: it gets boring with no change of scenery that a person sees when riding out in the country. Some have the screen in front for simulation of riding outside, and if all else fails, there is always the television set.
