Expert: Kim Farmer - 5/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am totally blind and my only form of exercise is a treadmill at home. I want to exercise more on it, but I tend to go too fast. I have also been setting a timer for how long I do it for. I hurt myself when I go too fast, and this also puts me off, any advice?

ANSWER: Hi Lindsay-
I commend you for continuing your exercise regimen even with your impairment!  As for the speed on the treadmill, you can increase the intensity on the treadmill by increasing the incline, not the speed.  If you have a tendency to hold on to the handrails (which is to be expected), try using just your fingertips in order to keep the consistency of the amount of calories that you burn.  You will burn less calories (and therefore decrease the intensity) by holding on to the handrails tightly.  

Try increasing the incline in order to work harder instead of increasing the speed.

I hope this helps, thanks for the question!

Kim Farmer
ACE-Certified Personal Trainer
www.MileHighFitness.com
www.teambeachbody.com/coachfarmer

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have also got poor balance, so will it be safe for me to just hold on to the rails using just my fingertips?

Answer
Hi Lindsay-
If you walk at a pace that is slow enough for you to maintain your balance by using your fingertips alone, you should be ok.  My disclaimer is that I haven't actually seen you walk on the treadmill so I'm basing it on theoretical knowledge only.  Adjust the speed and incline until you feel comfortable walking with minimal hand holding.

Thanks again.