K.W. asks from Gautier, MS on October 13, 2009
Is Walking on a Treadmill and Regular Walking the Same ?
I am 32 weeks pregnant and people have been telling me that I need to walk because it will be easier on me during pregnancy and I wanted to know does walking on a treadmill have the same effct as me just like walking regularly.
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L.W. answers from Biloxi on October 14, 2009
No, but the benefits of either are relatively the same. The treadmill is constantly moving. That motion actually takes away a very small amount of resistance. That is why runners who train on treadmills get winded and tired if they try the same workout on the road.
However, walking on the treadmill will give you exercise and the benefits far outweigh the resistance benefit. Walk outdoors when you can, but it is more than okay to walk on a treadmill out of the weather.
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L.W. answers from Biloxi on October 14, 2009
No, but the benefits of either are relatively the same. The treadmill is constantly moving. That motion actually takes away a very small amount of resistance. That is why runners who train on treadmills get winded and tired if they try the same workout on the road.
However, walking on the treadmill will give you exercise and the benefits far outweigh the resistance benefit. Walk outdoors when you can, but it is more than okay to walk on a treadmill out of the weather.
R.M. answers from Lafayette on October 14, 2009
I would recommend being VERY careful on a treadmill. I was told not to walk on one once I was farther along because your equilibrium is off and your center of gravity is no longer the same. If you decide to do the treadmill just be sure to hold on the rail or and handles. Also becareful not to over do it. If you aren't use to working out before you got pregnant you need to take it slow and not do too much. Just my two cents.
L.M. answers from Seattle on October 13, 2009
a trainer told me that when I do a slow jog to make it more equal to joging outside.. put a 1 perecent grade on the treadmill.
best of luck,
L.
R.E. answers from Lawton on October 14, 2009
In my opinion it's which ever you are more comfortable with. The main objective is to keep moving. I enjoyed the fresh air of walking outside, enjoyed a little tv on the tredmill, and liked window and baby shopping while walking around the mall. Key goal is stay active!!! But of course to your own personal limits.
R.H. answers from New Orleans on October 14, 2009
Make sure you have the proper shoes. Walking is an excellent way to exercise.
M.P. answers from Texarkana on October 15, 2009
Yep, it sure is. Good luck and keep up the walking!
C.T. answers from Little Rock on October 14, 2009
Cardio wise yes but as far as the muscle development/strength no. You are working different muscles.
T.P. answers from Tuscaloosa on October 14, 2009
It's not the same, but it's still good for you as long as you don't push yourself too hard and you stay hydrated. The difference is that when you walk outside, your body has to do the work to propel you forward. On a treadmill, you just have to pick up and put down your feet, so the treadmill actually does the work of propelling you forward. You still work the same muscles, just not quite as much. Do whatever works for you!
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