The Treadmill

Today I did a 3 mile run on the treadmill. I'm not a fan of the treadmill, however I can't really run outside when I want due to my 3 year old. So, the gym is the best bet for me when it comes to running consistently. The gym I go to is great! It's big and the Kid's Club (where my 3 year old goes when I'm working out) is awesome. The girls that work there are great and they've known my sons since they were babies and when I say baby, from when my 3 year old was 4-5 months old or so. 

So when it comes to running, I have to run on the treadmill. Like I said I'm not a fan as like many of you know, it is boring. I'd rather be out on the streets or on a trail running, rather than being stuck inside on a treadmill. The gym I go to tries to make it more exciting with all the tv's and it does help a little but it still ends up being very monotonous. 

Some tips that I have on keeping it more interesting on the treadmill:

1). Go to the gym when you know one of your favorite shows will be on, or at least an interesting one. Lately, I've been watching Live with Kelly and Michael and it helps a lot when someone funny is on. It definitely makes the time go by faster.

2). Music! Music helps a lot and sometimes when there is nothing good on tv, it helps to have a good running playlist. Sometimes I even sing along (quietly of course) because the music is too good and energizing. :)

3). People watch - Just glance around, it helps the monotony at times when you just look around. Sometimes I even watch the class that's going on and check out the the moves they're doing (silly it sounds but watching body pump and the moves they do can be interesting). 

4). Go with a friend. Not only does a friend push you, but they could be good chatting partners on the treadmill and the time can just fly by. 

Do you have any suggestions on how to make running on the treadmill more interesting? Any tips on how to stay on longer?