📝 Detailed Answer
From a TKM perspective, treadmill weight loss can be broken down into four steps.
1. Know Your Constitution First
If you have Spleen Qi Deficiency (비허, 脾虛), your digestive function is weak, so exercise may further deplete your energy. Conversely, if you have Phlegm-Dampness (담음, 痰飮), your body retains excess moisture, and moderate cardio can help with circulation. Not knowing your constitution can easily lead to ineffective or harmful training.
2. Set Appropriate Intensity and Duration
Instead of running fast, a conversational pace where you can still talk comfortably for 20-30 minutes is recommended as a baseline. Excessive Qi consumption can worsen Spleen Qi Deficiency, so caution is needed.
3. Choose Your Exercise Time Wisely
Evening workouts may deplete too much Qi and disrupt sleep. Morning or daytime is better if possible, but if you must exercise in the evening, ensure adequate rest afterward. Many people feel dizzy the next day after evening exercise.
4. Post-Workout Recovery and Nourishment
Exercise alone isn't enough. For Spleen Qi Deficiency, easily digestible proteins are beneficial. For Phlegm-Dampness, ginger tea or herbal teas that aid circulation are helpful. Your body must recover properly for the next workout to be effective.
By following these four steps, you can achieve constitution-specific weight loss without overexertion. Of course, consistency is the most important factor.