Treadmill Pain: Should You “Run” Through It?
Even while using the most reliable treadmills like those from Sole and Smooth Fitness, you might still experience a twinge of pain, or to put it simply — treadmill pain — from working out. The question is, should you just “run through” the pain? When should you stop? To answer these questions, it is best to understand the different types of pain.
Mild
When you start your work out on a treadmill, you may feel mild pain. It goes away during the warm-up period, and you can run through it. The pain is most likely inconsistent and it moves to different areas of your body. On a scale from 1 to 10, it can be identified in the 1 to 3 range. It is common and considered ok to run through.
Moderate
When you really start to exercise after the warm-up period, moderate pain may occur. It is tolerable throughout the run on the treadmill and ranges from 4-6 on the pain scale. It doesn’t pass your personal pain threshold, it doesn’t alter your stride, or cause you to limp. It usually is ok to run through moderate pain, but you might consider taking a break from running for a few days and apply the R.I.C.E treatment to let your body recover.
Severe
This pain is felt before, during, and after your workout, and ranges from 7 to 10 on the pain scale. It will continue to increase during your run, cause you to limp, and alter your running to stride. It is never safe to run through severe pain, and you should stop working out immediately. Consult your doctor for treatment.
If you are ever short of breath, feel dizzy or faint, you should never continue running. Furthermore, it is always advised to consult your doctor prior to any new exercise routine.
Being in tune with your body while working out is important. Although muscle aches are common during the warm-up period, intense pain should never persist during your workout. If you are ever worried about an ailment, it is best to stop and consult a doctor. Working out on a treadmill is a great way to get in shape, but you don’t want to push yourself too hard and end up with an injury.
