Running on a treadmill is a great source of exercise. But you can do other things with this piece of equipment that will benefit your body. Expand your workout knowledge by learning the five things you can do on a treadmill instead of running.

Incline Push-Ups

Consider that a treadmill also allows you to do incline push-ups if you find yourself debating whether you want to purchase a treadmill or an elliptical machine. After turning the treadmill off, you can put your palms on the machine’s front handle and keep your body straight as you do push-ups. Doing so will allow you to exercise your upper body and arms.

Side Shuffles

A side shuffle is one exercise you can do while the machine is running. Start by positioning yourself on your side rail and adjusting the machine’s speed between three and five miles per hour.

Move sideways with your knees bent when you get onto the belt. This exercise will help build your calve and thigh muscles and give you a cardiovascular workout.

Railing Pull-Ups

A railing pull-up is another thing you can do on your treadmill instead of running. After you confirm the treadmill’s power is off, sit in the middle of the band with your knees bent.

Take your hands and grab the railings so that you pull yourself up, bending your arms with each rep. This exercise will benefit your upper body and arms. But do it carefully so the treadmill’s band does not move, causing you to slip and fall.

Mountain Climbers

This exercise doesn’t require you to climb a mountain but instead allows you to move similarly as you work out your glutes and hamstrings. Move to the end of the treadmill after turning it off and take a plank position with your hands on the floor and your feet on the belt.

Pull your right knee to your chest, keeping your left leg straight behind you. Bring up your left as you put your right foot back. As you switch back and forth, you should move the treadmill’s belt while practicing resistance training.

Windshield Washer Extensions

Try windshield washer extensions if you want to work out your core. The machine must be off for this exercise while you sit in the middle of the treadmill band, away from the dashboard. As you hold onto the railings, extend your legs in front of you and tap your heels on either side of the belt.

You will get more out of your investment in your treadmill when you learn to do these exercises. Not only can you use the treadmill in the traditional sense, but you can do other activities that will give you additional benefits.