On the couch, you can unwind and focus solely on watching TV, but this isn’t possible while working out on a treadmill. The main objective is to exercise effectively, and whether you’re following a fitness schedule or are just distracted by the pain of working out, you can find some shows more enjoyable than others to help you get through it. In fact, as you’ll see in a moment, studies have proven that specific types of shows might improve your performance in order to achieve those fitness goals. So stay tuned as we provide you with the greatest Netflix and other built-in entertainment app recommendations for treadmill running and walking.
Comedy Programmes
Comedy is actually an excellent choice for running, despite what you might initially think. Try to watch some comedic television while using the treadmill to exercise. According to a study from Oxford University, laughing raises your pain threshold. Your capacity to handle discomfort while exercising is aided by this. Additionally, it elevates your mood, which might increase your motivation to push through exhaustion and cause you to look more favourably back on the workout. Another study measuring laughing by Georgia State University found that after 45 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, participants’ aerobic endurance, mental health, and exercise result expectancies all significantly improved. Even more, laughing fits allow you to relax your muscles and increase blood flow.
- South Park
- New Girl
- After Life
- It’s always sunny in Philadelphia
- F is for Family
Fun and Lighthearted Programmes
The worst shows to watch while exercising are those that are challenging to follow or depressing. High-end treadmills with screens make it easier to concentrate, but the continual movement from running might be annoying and make you miss important plot points. Additionally, watching shows that are depressing will probably make you want to exercise less. Unless you enjoy using exercise as a stress relief while you’re feeling down, exercising while feeling good is related with more effective workouts. Lighthearted drama series and comedic sitcoms with a generous dosage of cliches are some of the best shows to watch. The inspiration from the following:
- Emily in Paris
- Friends
- The Simpsons
- Modern Family
- Doom Patrol
- 90 Day Fiancé
- Ted Lasso
Shows with Nature Documentary
Although using a treadmill to run is quite handy, there are moments when you feel as though you are losing out on experiencing the great outdoors. Nature documentaries transport you into the wild with breathtaking pictures that leave you speechless. It can at least restore a feeling of interconnectedness with the outside world. Additionally, it exhibits animal survival instincts, such as predators and prey fleeing for their life, which they do! Despite the fact that humans have hacked the game of life, it can, from an evolutionary perspective, put the value of running and being fit into perspective and serve as a source of appreciation, if not motivation. These shows keep you interested due to their intensity and unpredictable nature:
- Our Planet
- Planet Earth
- David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet
- Alone
The Best Podcasts for Runners
Podcasts are perfect for listening, and they don’t need to include video to keep runners interested. The appeal of podcasts is in the personal touches that give you a sense of participation in the dialogue. Studies have shown that going to the gym and sticking with it are both greatly influenced by the social aspect of being there. This is the ideal approach to maintain contact when exercising on the treadmill at home, which can occasionally feel lonely. Additionally, a lot of podcasts provide the best sources of inspiration, coaching, humour, and fascinating life tales that are beneficial to your mental and physical health. Some instances are:
- Defy the Odds with David Goggins
- 10% Happier
- The Rambling Runner
- Joe Rogan Experience
- Running Commentary
- The Morning Shakeout
- Radio Headspace
You should watch shows you are comfortable with while working out on the treadmill because everyone has different interests. This should serve as a guide for helping you identify the greatest matches to keep yourself amused, motivated, and operating at your peak potential.
