My Story: Overcoming Health Challenges and Discovering Virtual Treadmill Walking
Discover how to get started with virtual treadmill walking! Join me as I share my journey of overcoming health challenges and transforming my exercise routine into exciting virtual adventures. Then learn about essential equipment, setting up your space, and enjoying immersive walks from the comfort of your home.
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Six months ago, my life took an unexpected turn.
During a routine check-up, my doctor discovered an 8 cm cyst on my left ovary. After a whirlwind of tests and doctor appointments, I was referred to an oncologist. Then just six weeks after the initial discovery, I underwent a full hysterectomy and was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis.
Because of this surgery, I was plunged into surgical menopause, bringing with it a host of side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. Therefore, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and antidepressants have become my daily companions to combat these challenges, including the hormonal weight gain that has made it difficult for me to enjoy my usual outdoor activities.
Living in Florida, the heat can be unbearable, making it miserable to walk outside for exercise. However, my love for YouTube travel videos and exploring new places sparked an idea: what if I could walk through beautiful destinations from the comfort of my air-conditioned home? This led my husband and me to create a virtual treadmill area, turning our exercise routine into an exciting adventure.
How to Get Started with Virtual Treadmill Walking
If my story resonates with you, and you’re ready to embark on your own virtual treadmill walking journey, here’s how you can get started:
Essential Equipment:
- Treadmill: A sturdy and reliable treadmill is key. We chose the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill for its performance and features. To protect our floors and minimize noise, we placed a rubber mat underneath.
- TV Mounted on the Wall: A large screen enhances the immersive experience. We mounted a 55-inch TV on the wall, perfect for streaming YouTube videos of breathtaking locations. We also chose a mount that swivels off the wall.
- World Map from Holly Cow Canvas (optional): To add a fun and motivational element, we hung a world map from Holly Cow Canvas. This helps me track all the places I’ve virtually walked, making each workout feel like a new adventure.
Setting Up Your Virtual Treadmill Area
1 – Choose Your Space: Find a comfortable and spacious area in your home where you can set up your treadmill and TV. Ensure the space is well-ventilated and has good lighting.
2 – Install Your Equipment: Set up your treadmill on a rubber mat to protect your floors. Mount the TV at eye level (while on the treadmill!) for the best viewing experience while walking.
3 – Create a Motivational Environment: Personalize your space with motivational posters, maps, or anything that inspires you to keep moving. The world map from Holly Cow Canvas is a great tool to visualize your virtual journeys.
Enjoying Virtual Treadmill Walking
Now that your setup is ready, it’s time to enjoy your virtual walks. Here’s how to make the most out of your new exercise routine:
1 – Stream YouTube Travel Videos: Find YouTube channels that offer virtual walks through different cities, nature trails, and iconic landmarks. The variety keeps your workouts interesting and engaging.
2 – Track Your Progress: Use your world map to mark the locations you’ve explored virtually. This not only adds a sense of accomplishment but also motivates you to keep walking.
3 – Join Our Community: I invite you to become part of our community, share your treadmill setups, and tell your stories. Together, we can support and inspire each other.
Conclusion
Virtual treadmill walking has transformed my approach to exercise, turning a challenging situation into an exciting opportunity to explore the world. Whether you’re dealing with health issues, seeking a fun way to stay active, or simply looking for a new adventure, virtual treadmill walking offers a unique and enjoyable solution.
Join me on this journey and let’s explore the world together, one step at a time. Share your experiences and connect with others who are on the same path. Together, we can make our fitness routines not just about exercise, but about discovering the magic that lives on in every corner of the globe.