Walking on a Treadmill to Lose Weight

Walking on a Treadmill to Lose Weight

When you want to lose weight, you don’t necessarily have to run quickly or lift big weights all the time. Walking on a treadmill is often considered one of the most straightforward and efficient methods for weight loss.
Everyone can incorporate treadmill walking into their routines because it is easy to do and has a low impact on the body. Walking on a treadmill may be an important component of your quest to lose weight, regardless of whether you are just starting out or are returning to your regular exercise regimen.

We will explain all you need to know about walking on a treadmill to lose weight in this post. We will use straightforward language, recommendations based on real-life experiences, and a strategy that you will be able to actually follow!

1. Why Walking Works for Weight Loss

It might not seem like much, but walking is a potent way to lose weight. To explain why:

  • Every step you take burns calories. You burn more calories the more you walk.
  • Walking regularly speeds up your metabolism, which helps you burn more even when you’re not moving.
  • Walking is safer for your knees, hips, and back than running since it doesn’t put as much stress on them.
  • It’s easy to start walking; you don’t need any specific training. Put on your shoes and go!
  • Walking generates endorphins and other hormones that make you feel good, which makes it easier to remain motivated.

Many people believe that weight loss requires vigorous exercise, but regular, steady walking can be just as beneficial, especially when combined with a nutritious diet.

2. How Much Should You Walk to Lose Weight?

The ultimate question: how much time should you spend walking on a treadmill?

A straightforward explanation is as follows:

Goal
Time on Treadmill per Day
Speed
Maintain current weight20-30 minutesModerate pace (2.5–3.5 mph)
Lose weight (slow & steady)30–45 minutesBrisk pace (3–4 mph)
Lose weight faster60 minutes or moreBrisk pace + incline

Tip: You don’t have to do it all at once. You can break it into two 30-minute sessions!

3. Best Treadmill Walking Techniques

For the purpose of getting the most out of your time spent on the treadmill, be sure you follow the following guidelines:

Warm-Up First

Start at a slow pace (about 2 miles per hour) for five minutes to get your body ready for the activity.

Use Proper Form

    • Be tall and avoid hunching over.
    • Ensure that your shoulders are relaxed.
    • Make a natural swing with your arms.
    • Look up, not down, toward the future.

Play with Incline

In addition to increasing your leg strength, walking at an elevation helps you burn more calories. As you get stronger, begin with a modest inclination of one to two percent and gradually increase it.

Change Speeds

Walk at a leisurely pace and at a rapid pace (similar to interval training). You keep your body guessing, which leads to increased fat burning.

Example:

    • 3 minutes at 3 mph
    • 2 minutes at 4 mph
    • Repeat!

4. How Many Calories Can You Burn?

Weight, speed, and time all play a role in determining the number of calories that you burn.
The following is a preliminary estimate:

Weight (lbs)
30 minutes at 3 mph
30 minutes at 4 mph
120100 calories150 calories
150125 calories200 calories
180150 calories250 calories

Fun Fact: Walking briskly for one hour a day could help you lose about 1 pound a week if you also eat healthy!

5. Sample Treadmill Walking Plan

For those who are just starting out, here is a 4-week plan:

Week
Days/Week
Time/Day
Speed
Incline
1420 mins2.5–3 mph0%
2525 mins3–3.5 mph1%
3530 mins3.5 mph2%
4630–40 mins3.5–4 mph2–3%

You will experience a sense of strength and fitness by the fourth week, and you will be prepared to challenge yourself even further!

6. Mistakes to Avoid

Although walking is a simple activity, it is important to avoid making the following common mistakes:

  • Too much holding on to the handrails makes the exercise less intense.
  • When you walk quickly, you breathe harder yet can still communicate.
  • Don’t skip the warm-up and cool-down. Always start and stop slowly to preserve your muscles.
  • Too much inclination might hurt your knees. Take your time building up.

7. How to Stay Motivated

When you walk every day, it might feel monotonous at times. Here’s how to make it more enjoyable:

  • I recommend listening to music or podcasts.
  • Watch a show that you enjoy watching.
  • Participating in a virtual walking challenge
  • Utilize a fitness watch to keep track of your steps.
  • Take a stroll with a friend, even if it’s digital!

Keep in mind that consistency is superior to perfection. It is preferable to walk a short distance every day rather than to exert excessive effort once a week.

8. Treadmill Walking vs. Outdoor Walking

They both have many advantages!
The following is a brief comparison:

Feature
Treadmill Walking
Outdoor Walking
WeatherAlways availableDepends on weather
SurfaceSmooth and safeMay be uneven
Incline ControlEasy to adjustDepends on terrain
Entertainment OptionsWatch TV, listen to musicEnjoy nature

It is impossible to beat the convenience of a treadmill at home when it comes to squeezing in a workout when you are short on time.

9. Tips to Speed Up Weight Loss

Even while walking on a treadmill is beneficial, if you combine it with a few other routines, you can accelerate your results:

  • Get more protein Keeps you full for longer.
  • Drink plenty of water Sometimes we believe we’re hungry while we’re really thirsty.
  • Not getting enough sleep might make it harder to lose weight.
  • Be consistent Every day, taking little measures may lead to big improvements over time.

Walk Your Way to Weight Loss

Even though walking on a treadmill appears to be a simple activity, if you utilize it in the right way, it can be one of the most effective instruments for weight reduction.

Begin slowly, maintain consistency, and gradually increase the difficulty of your tasks. Don’t be in a hurry.
The more steps you take, the closer you get to achieving your objective.

Always keep in mind that losing weight is not about hurting your body; rather, it is about taking care of it.
You can become a better and happier version of yourself by putting on your sneakers, starting the treadmill, and walking your way to happiness.

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