Son Yejin braves the weather to hit the treadmill at the gym
On the 27th, Son Yejin posted a video on her social media with the caption, "Even if it's snowing or raining," showing herself exercising at the gym.
In the video, she can be seen walking on a treadmill while looking out at the snowy landscape. Despite the bad weather, her dedication to maintaining her fitness and her strict self-management were evident.
The exercise equipment Son Yejin chose, the treadmill, is effective for improving cardiovascular health, strengthening the lower body, and burning fat. By adjusting the speed and incline of the treadmill, you can increase the intensity of your workout.
When walking or running on a treadmill, the muscles in the legs and glutes become stronger, which helps increase basal metabolic rate (BMR) and promotes continuous calorie burning. Walking on an incline engages the calves, thighs, and glutes, allowing for both weight loss and muscle strengthening benefits simultaneously.
Mental Health Benefits of Running on a Treadmill
In addition to physical benefits, running on a treadmill also has positive effects on mental health. Running at a pace that increases the heart rate to 120 beats per minute for about 30 minutes can make you feel lighter and mentally clearer. This sensation, known as a "runner's high," occurs when the body releases beta-endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mood.
Advantages of Treadmills is Weather-Proof and Safe
A major advantage of using a treadmill is that it allows you to work out regardless of the weather. Unlike outdoor running or walking, where you may face risks such as slippery roads or bad weather conditions, a treadmill offers a safe and controlled environment.
When using a treadmill, it's important to keep your gaze forward and ensure your heel touches the ground first. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends using a treadmill for 20 to 60 minutes, depending on your fitness goals. Running at a speed of 7 km/h for one hour can burn around 450 calories.
Backward Walking on a Treadmill
Another interesting option is walking backward on a treadmill. A study conducted by researchers from Stellenbosch University in South Africa showed that participants who walked backward on the treadmill for six weeks used more energy and lost more body fat compared to those who walked forward.
Caution for Overweight Individuals
For those who are overweight or obese, running or walking on a treadmill can put additional stress on the knees, as the body’s weight places about four times the load on the joints. To reduce the strain, it is advisable to wear shoes with good cushioning or joint support braces. Additionally, lowering the speed and incline of the treadmill can help prevent injury.