Let’s talk about some of the wild ways people use treadmills and how you can avoid them to get the best workout without getting injured.

Not having a fitness trainer to guide you can be risky if you don’t know how to use the equipment properly. Using the wrong form or tempo can lead to injuries.

Some treadmill mistakes are clearly dangerous, but people still make them. Here are a few things you should definitely avoid doing on a treadmill:

First off, don’t try to ride a bike on a treadmill. Treadmills are for walking or running, not biking. Some folks even think it’s okay to use skates or rollerblades on them. Treadmills require balance and control, and using wheels just makes it harder to stay balanced. Stick to using your feet, and you’ll avoid falling off and making a spectacle of yourself.

It’s easy to get lost in thought while on a treadmill, but that can lead to accidents. If you’re too distracted thinking about what to wear to a party, you might lose track of your feet and take a nasty fall. Instead, try to clear your mind and focus on your movements to help relieve stress.

Always look forward, stay focused, and count your laps instead of thinking about your endless to-do list.

Treadmills can get really hot as you use them. The belt under your shoes heats up, and you can feel the heat through your shoes. This is why you need good footwear to protect your feet, providing proper cushioning and protection against constant pounding. Some people treat the gym like a fashion show, but it’s important to differentiate between fashionable gym footwear and a fashion disaster.

Running on a treadmill is good for building stamina, but it’s not the same as training for a race. Running on a treadmill and running on an open track are different; the treadmill can’t replicate the conditions of a race. While a treadmill is great for your cardiovascular health, it won’t make you a better racer.

Remember, you’re supposed to run on a treadmill, not perform gymnastics. Jumping or bouncing on a treadmill is dangerous. The hard surface doesn’t cushion your joints well, and you might twist your ankle due to the motion of the belt. Also, trying to look cool by jumping off a moving treadmill isn’t a good idea, especially with sweaty hands—it’s just asking for injuries.

So, the next time you’re on a treadmill, stick to walking or jogging. Avoid doing anything too crazy to keep yourself safe and get the most out of your workout!