Wouldn’t it be unfortunate if something as beneficial as using a treadmill would end up as a disaster? That’s why one can’t insist enough on how to stay safe on a treadmill.
It is an undeniably effective tool for working out. However, failure to use it properly can turn it into something dangerous, if not fierce.
Consequently, one must be as careful as possible when walking, jogging, or running on a treadmill. There is also the need to follow all the guidelines.
So, without further ado, let’s discuss staying safe on a treadmill. For the sake of your safety and that of your loved ones, keep reading.
Table of Contents
Selecting the Right Treadmill
Selecting the right treadmill is a crucial step for anyone looking to enhance their indoor running experience.
The machine you choose can make it safe or unsafe to be on the treadmill.
Selecting one that can withstand your weight makes it safe.
Ensure that it can also accommodate your exercise volume and style.
Factor in your level of experience, too.
Pay Attention to the Manual
As boring as reading a manufacturer’s manual is, go the extra mile and do it.
It often contains information on how to promote its safety.
Remember that assembling your treadmill can also make it safe or unsafe.
So, follow the manual religiously to avoid any mistake which can be life-threatening.
Maintaining Your Treadmill Regularly
You must ensure that the treadmill is working well and safely at all times.
One can only achieve that by maintaining it regularly.
Despite its lack of fun, it is worth the effort.
So, do everything necessary to keep the machine in good shape.
Besides enhancing your safety, regular maintenance also improves its longevity.
It also saves you money by catching any problem on time.
Gradual Speed Increase
To ease your workout sessions, gradually increase the treadmill’s speed. It also prevents falls and tripping.
Even an experienced runner can get an injury for increasing the speed quickly.
After all, the deck length, cushioning, and bounce differ from one treadmill to another.
Don’t Increase Incline and Speed Simultaneously
Increasing incline and speed usually increases the intensity of your workout session.
So, you can imagine the effect of changing this pair at once.
Besides, changing them while running can cause confusion and injuries.
The idea is to avoid tampering with various variables simultaneously.
Avoid Jumping Off a Moving Treadmill
If the belt is moving, don’t step off this machine. It turns out it isn’t as obvious as one would assume since most people make this mistake.
This practice has two major purposes;
Safety
If you step on a treadmill while it moves, there are high chances of tripping.
You could also fall, thus leading to severe injuries.
An Opportunity to Cool Off
As the treadmill comes to a stop, your body gets to cool down.
That buys your muscles the time they need to return to their initial resting state.
Press the Right Stop Button
Remember that a treadmill has a regular stop button and its emergency counterpart.
Since they have different purposes, they trigger different reactions.
For instance, the regular stop button stops the belt after several seconds.
If time is of the essence, it may be unsafe to press it.
On the other hand, it is unsafe to press the emergency stop button if that’s not what the situation demands.
After all, it causes a jolt that increases your chances of falling.
Clean the Workout Area
Similarly, this safety measure has various benefits worth mentioning.
Prevents Treadmill Malfunction
It would be unfortunate for anything to snag in the running deck.
Therefore, it is important to clear any shoes, toys, or clothing near this area.
Failure to do so could lead to damage to the treadmill.
Once it starts malfunctioning, there is a high chance of injuring yourself.
Avoids Related Falls
These pieces may not snag in the machine, but they will still be lying around.
So, the treadmill may not malfunction, but you will most likely trip over them once you get off the machine.
Do you see why cleaning the area around the treadmill is important? Such a tripping hazard needs immediate elimination to avoid damage.
Eliminates Losses
Whereas the benefit doesn’t have much to do with safety, it is also worth mentioning.
No one wants or even deserves to lose property.
Unfortunately, as soon as the treadmill pulls something beneath it, there is a high chance you won’t see it again.
So, avoid such an eventuality by cleaning up this area.
Wear Proper Clothes and Shoes
The most dangerous clothes are the ones that can hold onto the treadmill.
After all, they can make you trip and fall, thus leading to injuries.
Besides clothes, shoes also matter; the ideal choice is sneakers. For your safety, avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops.
You shouldn’t go barefoot, either. However, there is an exception if you are a professional barefoot runner.
The importance of the shoes is to secure your foot.
They also allow a consistent stride, thus reducing your chances of tripping during the workout.
Never Ignore the Safety Clip
Remember that the safety clip is there for a reason, and you can’t afford to ignore it. So, wear it despite your running experience and age.
Remember that accidents occur unannounced, so prepare for such moments. Better safe than sorry, anyway.
No matter how experienced you are in running, falls and slips may occur. That’s where the safety clip comes in.
If you have it on, it will trigger the stop of the treadmill as soon as you fall. Consequently, neither your clothing nor the legs will go under the running deck.
Conclusion
How to stay safe on a treadmill is as simple as the above discussion shows. So, one can say without fear of contradiction that it is achievable.
So, don’t hesitate to observe the various safety measures when using the machine. Working out on treadmills should be fun and not painful; staying safe will guarantee that.
As you observe your safety, don’t overlook that of your children and pets. You should ensure they don’t go near the machine without your supervision.
Remember, walking, jogging, or running on a treadmill have risks. It is up to you to avoid them at all costs.
Otherwise, you may regret jumping on or off a treadmill for the rest of your life. It won’t be worth it, hence the need to be careful.
