Have you noticed that you can run like a gazelle on the treadmill, but running half the distance outside gets you completely winded?

Well, do you use any incline while running on the treadmill? If you don't, you should. Here's why: Since the treadmill belt propels you along a bit, you're not using as much energy as you would if you were running (or walking) outside — not to mention the fact that there is no environmental resistance indoors, such as wind, making your workout a little tougher.

To make your treadmill workout closer to outdoor exercise, simply raise the treadmill incline to at least 1 percent; you should use as many calories as if you were walking or running outdoors. If you currently run at a 0 percent incline, try pushing it to a 0.5 percent for the first week or so. Eventually work your way to having at least an 1–2 percent incline while you are running or walking.

Fit's Tip: Slowly putting a little more stress on the body with an incline will burn more calories, and develop more lean muscle tissue, even if you have no intentions of ever running outside.

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