Marathon training on a treadmill isn’t my idea of a good time. In fact, after about 5 miles on the hamster wheel, I start to go a little crazy, obsessively watching the clock, counting my steps. To me, training on a treadmill is like marching in place – you’re moving alright, but not going anywhere.
Today will be a true test for me…I have 11 miles to log (on the treadmill), no thanks to this lovely Ohio weather. I’m going in with my game face on, however, and my plan for staying focused…
1. Split the time between 2 treadmills. I don’t have a treadmill at home, but the gym has many. Since there is an hour-long limit, I’ll have to split my time between two, but I think that will work in my favor. The break between will make it seem like two short sessions rather one long one. I hope.
2. Concentrate on form. According to experts, some degree of internal focus is necessary when logging long miles. I use a good portion of my long runs to focus on form, breathing, relaxing tight muscles, etc. Any aches or twinges get immediate attention, before they become chronic. By paying attention to what my body is telling me during the run, I’m increasing the odds that I’ll make it through training without significant problems (like an injury. ouch.)
3. Music. Outdoors, I don’t normally use an iPod. The music actually kind of annoys me, and I prefer the solitude and quietness so that I can concentrate on what I’m doing. Indoors, however, is a different story. I find music does keep me motivated, and takes my mind off of the fact the scenery isn’t changing much. Expect for the patrons, who are at times, quite amusing.
4. Television. Let me preface this by saying I am NOT a soap opera watcher. Haven’t been since college. But, when I’m running at the gym in the middle of the afternoon, I admit that Days of Our Lives CAN make the time go a bit faster ;0)
5. “Do the work.” This is my tried and true motto that I say to myself (not out loud…well, sometimes) when the going gets tough. It reminds me that without effort, there can be no reward.