Don't let treadmill be a dreadmill

Walking is such a simple healthy activity, so why won't we get out there and do it? I can tell you why — it's because it takes time out of our day, and we don't think we have enough time as it is.

Part of this problem is our perfectionism. We have to have the right clothes, water bottle and other accessories that makes it take too long to get out the door. I will say you always need to wear good shoes. I wear mine out every three months, and the way I can tell that my shoes need to be replaced is because my shins begin to hurt. I don't wait till I have full-blown shin splints; I toss those shoes in the trash and put on a new pair.

As I am writing the article I am walking on my treadmill. I do my best thinking while I am walking and writing. I am not trying to write a Pulitzer-Prize winning novel; I am just pouring my heart out to anyone that will listen.

My treadmill had become a dreadmill for me. I hated it because it seemed like I was wasting time when I could be working. This is when I let go of my perfectionism and found a way to do both. My husband liked to read while he was steadily walking. I tried that but it just did not hold any appeal for me. I am a writer. and I write every day. This is when I put a bookshelf with a little lip on my treadmill arms.

Most mornings I can't wait to get on my treadmill just to see what comes out of my finger tips while I am walking. My stride is at a steady pace for me. After all I am pretty new at the exercise routine and I do not want to crash and burn. Most of the time I spend about 15 minutes to warm up and then I get off and finish my essay; as my strength builds up I will add a few more minutes to get my heart rate up and then a few minutes to cool down. I have tried this and I have found that I cannot type when I am in cardio workout mode.

Treadmills are hidden in our bedrooms, locked away in dungeons and dark garages. We usually keep them out of sight and out of mind. We try to disguise them so we don't have guilt attacks for not taking better care of ourselves. They become clothes butlers ready to accept any article of clothing you discard. Then when you do want to go for a walk on a rainy day; it is just too hard to undress your forgotten friend.

Yes, your treadmill can become your friend if you will develop a relationship with her. She would like a little attention each day. I am not talking about hours and hours here. Just start with 15 minutes each morning. Before you know it, taking your morning stroll will become as automatic as brushing your teeth.