Are you sabotaging your own treadmill workout?

The treadmill seems like an easy enough piece of equipment to use, right? You just get on and start walking or jogging, as simple as that.

Or maybe not. Many people aren't getting the most out of their treadmill workout and are actually risking injury because they aren't using it properly. The biggest mistake? Holding on. Not only does it take some of the important work away from your major muscle groups and set up bad posture situations, but it can be downright dangerous due to throwing off your natural stride and body mechanics.

So although the treadmill is an exercise equipment "basic," it's not completely foolproof either! Let go and walk the natural way. If you feel off-balance or unsteady then slow down the pace a little, or adjust the incline. And if the machine prompts you to hold on for a heart rate reading let go as soon as it gives you the result.