Treadmill workouts

I am new to triathlon training and wonder what place running on a treadmill can have as part of ones regular running workouts. I’d be happy to hear any feedback.

I have friends who do all their training on the treadmill and other who never use it. i think it depends on your locale-cold weather, ect. I just love training indoors and i just love training outdoors :wink:

Treadmill running has some real advantages. A few observations I have made:

  • The treadmill has the effect of “carrying you along” since it moves under you when your foot is planted. Most people suggest that a slight grade cancels this effect out (I use 2% to simulate a flat run).

  • If you are training in cold and icy conditions, it is safer to do your faster running on a treadmill where you have better footing and warmer muscles (I still like to do my easier runs outside though)

  • Speedwork on a treadmill is different in that you are forced to run a pace to keep from falling off rather than pushing to get a time - very motivating :slight_smile:

  • You can do very structured work on a treadmill, following an exact pace and designing hills of various length and grade at will.

  • You can use a treadmill to help “teach” you to run a given pace. Just be sure to transfer that practice to the road on a regular basis.

  • It is easy to do multiple bricks (BRBRBRBR…) using a trainer and a treadmill which is good fun, variety and helps you get your “triathlon legs”. If you travel, this sort of workout can be done with an exercise bike and a treadmill in a hotel gym too.

  • Long runs on the treadmill are really good for your mental toughness and focus

  • It is hilarious getting off the treadmill the first few times and feeling like the ground is moving :slight_smile:

Enjoy!