My treadmill is dead!

Approximately six years ago, about a week after the birth of my second baby, I told my husband I wanted a treadmill.  He argued it was not a wise purchase and that I would probably only use it for a few weeks and then fizzle out...the nerve!  By the end of that week I was the proud owner of a brand spankin new treadmill (I tend to be impulsive like that) and I've never looked back!  And I'm happy to admit that Greg has definitely eaten his words over and over again on this one. 

I would say, on average, I've used my treadmill at least 4 times a week for the last 6 years (not counting those few months each pregnancy when I give-up on exercising altogether!)  I LOVE MY TREADMILL!!!!!!!  It's how I learned to like running and it's how I spend my Tuesday nights during "Biggest Loser" seasons.  It's also provided me with a great way to exercise with small children around.  I definitely like to change my workout routines and incorporate other things, but the treadmill has been what works best for me.

On Friday my treadmill quit working.  Apparently a dead motor means a dead treadmill.  Seriously you guys...this is not good news!  I think I've gained 3lbs just thinking about it!!!  I've pleaded my case that a new treadmill is DEFINITELY worthy of "emergency fund" money, but my hubby doesn't agree.  Really though, it's almost as important to me as any major household appliance!  I would consider that an "emergency", wouldn't you?

So, until I can save up for a new treadmill, it's time to start broadening my horizons and adopting some new workout routines...like maybe breaking out the double jogging stroller again...dang!  (I may love running, but NOT while pushing two kiddos along and it doesn't help that it's harvest time around here and those big ol trucks don't necessarily make it safe for a momma and her double jogger)  Any suggestions would be helpful.  What's your favorite way to get in a good cardio workout?

But in honor of the treadmill, here is my ALL TIME FAVORITE treadmill workout.  I came across it here a while back and it's been my favorite ever since.  If you happen to be the proud owner of a WORKING treadmill, I highly recommend giving it a try.  Do it for me!

Treadmill Torch
You'll need a set of dumbbells, I recommend either 5 lbs. or 7 lb.s

1. Warm Up: On the treadmill, with the incline set at a challenging angle, power walk at a speed of 3-3.5 for 7 minutes. Keep your elbows up above your heart. Stop, get off the treadmill, and stretch.
2. Sprint: Drop the incline to 0, increase the treadmill speed, and sprint hard for 30 seconds. Aim for 90% of your maximum heart rate. To recover, bring your speed down to 3.0 and walk for one minute.
3. Squats: Get off the treadmill and squat, with your bottom out to the rear and your legs slightly apart. Then jump from the squatting position into the air, landing in the same squat position as before (aka Thrusts). Do this for one set of 15 or 20, working your quadriceps. If you’re already in good shape, hold dumbbells by your sides.
4. Overhead Presses: Do 15 or 20 overhead presses with the weights, pushing them straight up and directly over your shoulders.
5. Sprint: Get back on the treadmill and sprint for 30 seconds (no incline). The goal is to be at 80% of your maximum heart rate. To recover, decrease your speed to 3.0 and walk for one minute.
6. Tricep Extensions: Using dumbbells, do one set of 15 or 20 overhead tricep extensions. Your elbows should point toward the ceiling, with the weights behind your head. Lift the weights directly above your head and back down again.
7. Pushups. Do one set of 15 push-ups, with your elbows at a 90-degree angle from the body. Modification: Do the push-ups with your knees on the ground, but do 25 instead of 15.
8. Sprint: Back to the treadmill. Sprint for 1 minute, aiming for 70% of your maximum heart rate. To recover, jog for 90 seconds.
9. Jumping Jacks. Do one set of 15 or 20 jumping jacks. If you're strong enough, add two 10- or 15-pound dumbbells -- lift up the weights when you jump out, in an overhead press position, pulling them back down to shoulder height as your legs go back together.
10. Finale: Incline your treadmill to an angle that really challenges you -but don't hang onto the treadmill's rails. Walk at a 2.0-3.5 speed for 30 seconds, aiming for 60% of your maximum heart rate. To recover, bring the treadmill down to a 1.0 incline and drop your speed to 1.9 or 2.0 for a 1-minute walk. Finish by stretching