Have you explored the world of pyramid workouts yet? Think of it as building your fitness empire, one layer at a time, with each level bringing you closer to the peak of your physical abilities. Pyramid workouts are your fitness journey, guiding you toward improved cardiovascular health and stamina.
I vividly remember my first pyramid workout on a treadmill. It felt like embarking on an exciting expedition, with each increase in speed or incline pushing me further into the depths of my endurance. And the results? Absolutely exhilarating.
So, what’s the buzz about pyramid workouts? Research indicates that interval training, the core of pyramid workouts, significantly enhances cardiovascular health and improves both aerobic and anaerobic endurance.
In this blog post, I’m thrilled to guide you through an invigorating treadmill routine designed for runners at any level. Whether you’re a novice lacing up your sneakers or a seasoned marathoner, this pyramid workout is your ticket to elevating your running game.
Ready?
Let’s get ready
The 50-minute Workout Routine
Let’s dive into this workout, starting with a vital warm-up. Think of this as the appetizer before the main course of your treadmill session.
Begin with a 10-minute jog on the treadmill. Aim for a comfortable speed of 4 to 5 mph. At this stage, don’t focus on incline; just concentrate on getting your muscles warm and prepared. I also recommend the Myrtle Routine for warm-up.
Three minutes: 1st interval
Now, it’s time to ramp up the intensity. Increase your treadmill’s speed to a brisk 6.0 mph. Hold this pace for three minutes. Remember, form is key here. Keep your torso upright and your body relaxed from head to toe.
Four minutes: 2nd interval
Ready to push a little harder? Boost your speed to 7 mph and add a new element by setting the incline to three percent. This combination will challenge you for the next four minutes, adding a new layer of intensity to your workout…
Two minutes: Recovery
Now, let’s dial it back a bit. Reduce your pace and enter a two-minute recovery phase. This is your time to breathe easier, hydrate, and mentally prepare for what’s coming next. Use this period to relax and release any built-up tension, setting yourself up for the next interval.
Four minutes: 3rd Interval
It’s time to get back into action. Set your treadmill speed to 7 mph again, and adjust the incline to three percent. You’re going to maintain this steady pace and incline for the next four minutes, pushing through with focus and determination.
Five minutes: 4th Interval
Ready for a bigger challenge? Increase your treadmill speed to 8 mph and raise the incline to five percent. This interval is going to be an exhilarating five-minute journey, taking your workout to new heights of intensity.
Two Minutes: Recovery
Time to take it down a notch. Slow your pace to a comfortable 4 mph while keeping a mild two percent incline. This keeps your heart rate up, but also allows you some recovery time.
During this brief two-minute pause, focus on regaining your composure. This is the perfect moment to hydrate and breathe deeply. You’ve worked hard, so use this time to prepare mentally and physically for the next segment.
Five minutes: 5th Interval
Pick up the pace once more. Set your speed to a range of 7 to 7.5 mph with a five percent incline. Keep up this robust pace for a solid five minutes, challenging both your stamina and strength..
Four minutes: 6th Interval
You’re maintaining your speed here, but we’re adjusting the incline back to a more manageable three percent. Continue this steady pace for the next four minutes. This interval is about maintaining consistency and building endurance.
Two minutes: Recovery
Again, it’s time to ease off and slow down to 4 mph. Use this two-minute recovery period to regroup and recharge, preparing yourself for the final part of the workout. This is your chance to catch your breath and gear up for the last push..
Four minutes: 7th Interval
Now’s the time to really amp it up! Accelerate to a lively 8 mph and match it with a three percent incline. This interval is all about testing your boundaries and pushing through. Maintain your concentration and energy – you’re close to finishing strong!
Three minutes: 8th Interval
Keep the speed locked in at that brisk 8 mph. The twist this time is increasing the incline to a robust five percent. This is your final intense interval, and it’s the culmination of all your effort. Dig deep and power through – you’re almost there!
Five minutes: The cool-down
Finally, transition into your cool-down phase. Reduce your pace to a comfortable 4 mph and flatten the incline. This five-minute period is essential for your body to cool down and for your heart rate to gradually decrease. It’s also a moment for you to reflect on your achievement and relax. Enjoy this gentle jog as a well-deserved wind-down from an intense workout!