Can you do interval training on a treadmill
Below is a common question I get quite often about interval type training.
I’m sure many were in response the The Truth About Cardio Post from Craig Ballanytyne.
Question?
Hey Virgil
I’d love to implement interval training into my program
My question is can I do interval training on a treadmill, stair master or elliptical trainer
Answer:
Of course you can.
Cardio interval training can be done almost anywhere
Interval means you alternate harder work with lighter work or even rest
For example on your typical treadmill you can alternate a hard run at 8 MPH for 1 minute followed by an easy run at 5 MPH for 1 minute. You simply then repeat this sequence.
Just apply that to any cardio machine to create an interval workout.
It is however much easier and more effective to do interval work on real surfaces like a track, stairs or hills which is why they are big part of my NGN Program.
http://nogymnecessary.com/hill-sprints.html
http://nogymnecessary.com/stair-exercises.html
On real surfaces it’s much easier to do very hard or even extremely hard intervals then it is on machines.
The transition from a very tough interval is also smooth as you can simply stop or slow down for your easy interval.
For example If you run up stairs for 30 seconds all you have to do is stop or walk for your easy interval.
On a treadmill you have to actually press the buttons to slow down which can be a little tricky.
It can be done and is still effective but the real deal is the best choice if you have it available.
Virgil Aponte 
Have your training questions answered live!!!
Great question and great answer! I workout at least 3x a week and I switch between a few different machines including the treadmill, elliptical, and stairmaster. I do this because it forces my body to use different muscles which therefore helps me to stay toned overall.
No matter which machine I am on, the one thing that stays consistent is that I always choose an interval training workout. The transitions between the highs and lows is what makes the workout exciting and also challenging. If you want to get the most “bang for your buck,” select the interval training setting the next time you workout using a treadmill, elliptical, or stairmaster.