The treadmill: it is a useful piece of exercise equipment, and a viable alternative to running outside on those cold winter days when you just don't want to brave the elements.
Many own treadmills.
Many enjoy them.
Many get just the kind of workout they need to stay in shape from them.
But why, pray tell, would anyone ever want an outdoor treadmill? Isn't the whole purpose of buying one, so that you can run inside when the weather doesn't permit? Believe it or not, the outdoor treadmill has picked up in popularity because it presents three compelling arguments for its use.
1.
Enjoy the elements: True, you could enjoy the outdoors just as much if not more so by hitting your favorite trail, but why should those who actually enjoy running on a treadmill be deprived of the beauty of nature? With an outdoor treadmill, you can have your cake and eat it, too, although it probably wouldn't be a good idea.
(More time on the treadmill.
) 2.
Control the changes in your workout: With an outdoor treadmill, you can have the joys of running outside without giving up your control.
While natural terrain does not give you any choice in the lay of the land or traffic problems you may experience, the outdoor treadmill puts you in charge of speed and incline.
3.
Track your results: When running outside, who knows how many calories you've burned, or what your heart rate has climbed to? The outdoor treadmill can give you all that information, so you can plan your workouts (and your diet) better.
It may not seem like a good idea on the surface, but the treadmill can give you more power to control the course of your fitness, while not forcing you to sacrifice the beauty of your natural surroundings.