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Common Treadmill Running Mistakes

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Treadmill Mistake #1: Skipping Your Warm-Up or Cool Down

Treadmill RunnerPhoto by Stuart Hannagan/Getty Images
Running on a treadmill can have its benefits, such as protection from the elements and unsafe running conditions. But when you take your runs indoors, you need to make sure that you're running properly on the treadmill so you can avoid injuries and get the most out of your treadmill runs. Here are some of the most common treadmill running mistakes, starting with not warming up or cooling down:

It's tempting to jump on the treadmill, increase the incline or pace setting to your desired levels and get going. But, just like with outdoor running, it's important that you warm-up before getting into the more challenging part of your run.

If you've ever felt a little dizzy after you took that first step off the treadmill, it's most likely because you didn't cool down at the end of your run. You may feel like jumping off the treadmill as soon as the timer hits your goal time for your run. But stopping suddenly can cause light-headedness because your heart rate and blood pressure drop rapidly. Winding down slowly allows them to fall gradually. After you finish your run, make sure you cool down by walking or slowly jogging for 5 to 10 minutes before you step off the treadmill.

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