Kottayam: A treadmill is an excellent exercise machine that allows you to walk, jog or run in place on a moving belt. It’s often used for cardiovascular workouts or training. However, doctors and fitness trainers warn that carelessness could lead to severe injuries, and you might even end up in the hospital. Treadmill workouts are effective for weight loss and to gradually relax the heart. 

Those who do not exercise regularly can start to pant quickly, and their heart rate rises when they walk or run for a short distance. But, you could maintain healthy heartbeats without panting if you use a treadmill scientifically. Former President of IMA Kottayam, Dr Bipin P. Mathew, says that one needs to do workouts that strengthen their muscles, along with treadmill training, to enjoy maximum benefits. Meanwhile, fitness trainer Sibu Vaishnav offers the best tips to ensure safety while using a treadmill.

'Many people are overdoing their exercises leading to their physical and mental health issues'. Representative image: IANS
The speed of the belt should be increased only gradually. Representative image: IANS

Safety tips
• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes
• The safety clip of the treadmill should be attached to your t-shirt or gym trousers. The clip will hold you in a safe position and stop the treadmill if required for safety. The function can vary depending on the treadmill features and the brand. 
• Focus entirely on the treadmill workout. Using a mobile phone while working out on a treadmill may lead to accidents, unless one is extremely careful. 

•Stand on the rails first and step on the belt only after the machine starts moving slowly. 
•The speed of the belt should be increased only gradually. 
• A treadmill with no battery backup may suddenly shut down when there is a power cut. You could fall as you keep running, in such a case. Exercise caution. 
•Beginners can hold on to the side bars while running.

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