A device or application used to estimate elevation gain during a treadmill workout considers factors such as incline, speed, and duration. For instance, a runner using a 10% incline for 30 minutes at a specific speed will have a different elevation gain than someone running at a 5% incline for the same duration and speed. This calculation provides a more accurate representation of workout intensity and allows for comparisons to outdoor runs with elevation changes.
Quantifying elevation gain in treadmill workouts offers valuable insights into training load and progress. It allows athletes to better understand the intensity of their workouts, compare treadmill sessions to outdoor runs, and plan training programs more effectively. Historically, treadmill workouts lacked a standardized method for measuring vertical gain, leading to an incomplete picture of workout intensity. These tools address this gap and provide more comprehensive training data.