2 min readHate the loneliness of a solitary treadmill? You might want to try a treadmill fitness class—more and more runners are turning to them as a way to get in their workout.
In fact, data from over 60 million reservations made by ClassPass users this year shows that treadmill class bookings have increased 82 percent in 2017, giving them the greatest popularity spike of any type of class.
Users in Washington D.C. were the most likely to book a treadmill class, and March was the most popular month for scheduling one, followed by January, according to a ClassPass spokesperson.
“Running has always been a popular form of exercise and combining that with the same team atmosphere, awesome playlists and motivating instructors we love in cycling and HIIT classes, has made running inside more appealing than ever,” said Shari Castelli, director of empowerment funding and expansion at ClassPass.
Treadmill workouts tend to combine a sweaty workout with pulsating beats and mood lighting. Instructors guide your workout, taking you through speedwork and encouraging you to climb hills—it’s not just slogging along for 45 minutes on a treadmill like you might if left to your own devices. Some classes also add in strength training or meditation.
Rich Velazquez, COO at Mile High Run Club, told Runner’s World he thinks treadmill classes are gaining popularity because they make running inclusive and not a solo sport. Plus, since they are guided, they’re great for beginners.
“All levels of ability start and finish together,” he said. “Throw in the music, and it’s a completely different experience than running in front of a TV at your local gym.”
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The key to remember whether it’s your first or hundredth class: Don’t try to race your neighbor. To get the most out of your experience, Velazquez suggested focusing on yourself, but using the group effort as motivation.
“It might be tempting or even overwhelming to see other runner’s speeds in class,” Velazquez said. “Each person is working at a similar effort—however, the level of ability will vary.”
