It doesnt happen with everybody (sounds like Tommy has legs and joints of steel!) but many people totally overlook a major factor which is that treadmills actually use a completely different muscle set when running…

The pullback of the belt actually disengages the hamstrings which means they fail to develop properly.. If you want to see a bit more you can check out a blog post I wrote:
http://jamieatlas.wordpress.com

the title of the post I am talking about is ‘never run on a treadmill again’

Have a look and tell me what you think… Am interested to get your opinion as an avid runner.

Cheers!

Jamie Atlas
http://jamieatlas.wordpress.com

I would never say you can’t! How’s this for inspiration? Check out this article on mother of six Ceci St. Geme. It can be done!

Good luck!

–Steve

Good luck to your friend!

1. Start by walking, maybe 15 to 30 minutes at a time. Continue 3 to 4 times per week until 30 minutes feels comfortable.
2. Work up to a brisk walk for 30 minutes at a time, 3 or 4 times per week, until this feels fairly comfortable too.
3. When you can comfortably walk briskly for 30 minutes at a time, simply insert 3-4 “jogs” of 100 yards or so into your 30 minute walk. Make sure you warm up by walking slowly, build into a brisk walk and then do the short jogs when you feel ready.
4. If you’re up to the challenge, increase the running segments as you get stronger, until you can run non-stop for 30 minutes. If 30 continuous minutes is too much, insert as many walk breaks as required. Never get to a point where the running feels uncomfortable.
5. Now that you’re a runner, plan on increasing the time to 40 minutes three times a week with the goal of working up to 60 minutes for one of the weekly sessions.

Of course, this isn’t a one size fits all plan, and please check with a doctor before taking on any type of physical training plan. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Good luck and Happy Miles!

–Steve