Off topic, but for what it's worth I'm getting myself a rowing machine to try and alleviate my running cravings, especially as winter is coming. I'm not sure if it will be able to reproduce the feelings I get from running as I haven't done rowing enough, but running seems to be the only thing I've found that puts me into this flow state. Cycling is too limited, legs only, HR doesn't get high enough, so hopefully rowing is better due to it being full body. Rowing won't be outside and I won't be physically moving around so that may be the downside. But the metrics to achieve should be much more consistent and comparable compared to if there's many weather changes otherwise, so looking forward to seeing progress there.
replyFwiw I find the stairmaster to be the least boring of the cardio machines when looking for a replacement for running.
replyThat thing will make you sweat.
Have you tried rowing and you found that more boring? I feel like rowing with added bonus of training more muscles would seem most fun?
replyYeah tried it and I personally found it less fun.
replyThe tension on the hands feels very good though. And I do wonder if it also trains muscles around ankles that will help prevent shin splints.
replyIt’s somewhat funny that you mention shin splints and technique breakdown, both of which can be helped through regular gym going but also want a shortcut rather than the obvious solution.
replyShin splints really do suck though, I had some that put me off running for about 12 months.
Maybe they can be helped, and I've read suggestions like these as well, but I used to do a lot of strength training, including not skipping leg days, and still got shin splints. So strength training might decrease odds for some people, but I don't feel like it would be deciding factor for me.
reply