Essential treadmill accessories to get the most out of your workout - Chicago Tribune

2022-04-02 09:39:04 By : Ms. Murphy Jiang

With winter on its way, many outdoor running enthusiasts will start turning to their old standby: an indoor treadmill that offers a reliable way to workout without facing unpleasant weather.

Whether you’re a full-on treadmill advocate or you like to jump on the belt every now and then for a warm-up before a strength session, a few simple and inexpensive accessories can easily bring your workout to a new level.

Boredom is one of the leading causes of cutting a workout short. So keep yourself moving and entertained with a few key accessories that accommodate your preferred method of entertainment. If you like to browse a magazine or book while you walk, this large treadmill bookholder from Sourceone is a sturdy shelf that can hold extra-thick volumes. It's easy to attach to your machine by simply hooking it over the screen.

If you'd rather tune into your favorite TV show or get lost in a movie on the move, use this adjustable mount from Gooseneck to hold your tablet. It's compatible with most iPads and Galaxy tablets, including minis.

If you're planning to turn your treadmill into an office for a walking workstation, this laptop treadmill desk from Vivo is an adjustable ergonomic stand that supports your laptop and holds it steady with a secure velcro strap. You can raise or lower the desk to fit your most comfortable height. For even more working space, this treadmill desk attachment from HumanCentric turns your exercise equipment into a fully functional standing or walking desk.

To tune into your programming so the running belt doesn't drown out the audio, use a pair of comfortable wireless headphones. The Apple AirPods Pro fits comfortably into your ears and stays in place, even during an intense exercise session. They can connect to your tablet or computer with Bluetooth.

Depending on where you're working out, things can get hot and sweaty during an indoor run. These accessories will help keep you cool and hydrated for a safe and comfortable run. This powerful personal fan from Amacool hooks onto your treadmill handlebars and provides a steady breeze while you run. It comes in three colors and is battery powered so you don't need to be near an outlet.

Hydrating is essential for an effective and comfortable workout. And this universal cup holder from Muweha adds space for an extra water bottle. It even has a handy slot to hold a smartphone. The cup holder has internal grips that keep your water bottle steady as you run, so it won't rattle around. You can attach this adjustable cup holder anywhere that's convenient using the adjustable clamp.

Safety should be your first priority, and these items can help ensure that your workout is fun and healthy, not risky. For starters, this universal treadmill key has a magnetic attachment to automatically stop the belt in the case of a fall. It's compatible with many popular treadmill brands, including Reebok, Epik and NordicTrack.

To protect your floors and help absorb some of the shock of the pounding on your joints during a run, place a thick, high-density mat under the appliance. This non-slip mat from Kasmet is designed for home gyms. It comes in several sizes to accommodate treadmills, weight benches and stationary bikes. It's incredibly durable and made from non-toxic PVC foam.

After a sweat session, it's important to keep your treadmill clean to remove bacteria and to keep your machine running in tip-top condition. This cleaning kit from Clean-N-Walk is designed to easily remove dirt and other debris from a treadmill to maintain its condition for years. To keep the treadmill belt running smoothly, keep some treadmill lubricant on hand. This treadmill lubricant from Impresa Products is made from 100% silicone, which works for most treadmills. It comes in an easy-to-apply squeeze bottle so you can maintain your machine with minimal effort.

If you like to have a grip on the railings while you walk or run, you can protect your hands from blisters with padded hand covers like these from Vive. They wrap easily around the bars on your treadmill and are adjustable to your exact hand positioning.

If you're looking to get to the next level with your treadmill workouts, mix things up by adding new levels of resistance to your routine. One easy way to do this is with ankle or wrist weights. These Sportneer angle weights are adjustable from 0.5-2 pounds, simply by removing the weighted inserts. They come in five colors and have a comfortable neoprene exterior that's soft against your skin and easy to clean.

For an upper body pump, try a pair of lighter wrist weights. These Bala bangles look great and are comfortable to wear. They come in 1- and 2-pound weights and an extensive list of colors and patterns to match any workout outfit. For even more of a challenge, a set of lightweight dumbbells give your arms more of a workout as you go. This set of comfortable neoprene-coated dumbbells from Amazon Basics includes a 2-, 3- and 5-pound pair.  For further resistance, try throwing some band work into your treadmill session. Doing side steps, high knees and other dynamic exercises on a treadmill with a taught resistance band is a great way to activate your muscles before a hard effort. This pack of five resistance loop bands from Fit Simply includes a range of resistance levels for every kind of exercise. They even come in a handy drawstring pouch for storage. Lizzy Briskin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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