Treadmill Speed and Distance

by Fiona
(Ireland)

Hi there. My name is Fiona and I have started running on my treadmill. I have two small kids so I can't go out running on the road but happy enough with the treadmill.

I really do want to shift a stone weight and I am running in order to do that along with healthy eating.

My question is how many miles should I be doing a day and at what speed or what should the heart rate be.

I'm up to just under three miles and some times struggle to get past that barrier.

It's like when I see the 3 mile mark I automatically give up and find I am out of puff to keep going.

Do you have any tips on how I can stop that and the mileage and distance I should be doing.


Answer by Dominique:
Hi Fiona,
Thanks for your questions about running for weight loss and how to break through barriers.

Regarding weight loss: it is a combination of calories you take in and calories you burn. Whichever speed you run at, you will burn calories. When you run faster, you will burn more calories. However, when you run faster the drawback is that you will not be able to go for as long a time, which negates those benefits.

My Calories Burned While Running Calculator works solely on the distance you run, regardless of speed.

For ideas about running and weight loss, check out my Running for Weight Loss-page.

Regarding breaking through barriers: I recognise the issue. I remember when I first started longer distance running I had a lot of trouble with the 1 hr barrier. I just did not think I could go beyond. But at some point I just kept on increasing my mileage and went over with a few minutes, then the next week I went a little bit further again.

So, the first idea, would be to just go over with 1/4 mile or so. Then the next time go another 1/4 mile further. Just build it up slowly.

Another idea which works quite well for beginning runners is a run/walk approach. Run those 3 miles. Then rest or walk for a few minutes, then run again. That second run does not need to be far, just a few minutes. Just a little bit of extra training. And again, build up slowly. The next time, if you added two minutes of extra running last time, do three minutes of extra running. Build it up.


Slowly but surely you'll get to a point that when you get to 3 miles you feel you can still go a little bit longer. Try it, I am sure it will work.


I hope this helps.
Best of luck with your running and the weight loss goals.
Kind regards,
Dominique

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Training Helpline.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. Guide on How to Treat Black Toenail | Best Running Tips

    Discover effective and easy ways to treat black toenail. Understand causes, symptoms, prevention methods. Visit best-running-tips.com now to learn more.

    Read more

  2. Pain in Heel When Running - Common Causes, Treatment and Prevention Strategies

    Have you got some pain in your heel when running? Check out this page to learn about common causes, what to do about your heel pain and when to visit the doctor.

    Read more

  3. Common Running Injuries: Causes and Treatments

    running tips 07
    In this section of Best Running Tips I will tell you about the most common running injuries. Learn about them so you know how to prevent them !

    Read more

  4. Foot and Ankle Strengthening Exercises

    This short article provides a list of foot and ankle strengthening exercises that can improve your foot stability and prevent heel pain when running.

    Read more

  5. First Marathon for Older Runner

    I am 68 years old. I have been a runner for 33 years doing mostly 5 and 10K race with one half marathon. I usually run a 5K in 25-27 minutes and the

    Read more