How to Use The Skillrun - Urban Athlete Fitness Studio

How to Use The Skillrun

Have you ever noticed that the first treadmill in our lineup looks a little different than the rest?

That machine is called a Skillrun. You can use it like a regular treadmill for walking and running, but it also comes with a bunch of different features that can help you build endurance, improve speed, increase power, and add a bit of variety to your workouts.

This post will cover everything you need to know, from the basic features to the more advanced training options.

Option 1: The Basic Treadmill

If you just want to use the Skillrun as a regular treadmill, all you have to do is hit the green “Start” button!

Speed and incline can be adjusted the same way as our other treadmills, using either the touchscreen or the physical buttons.

The Skillrun also has a decline feature, which most treadmills don’t. If you want to train with a decline, you can adjust the incline down into the negatives.

Option 2: Custom

The Custom option lets you choose a specific goal, and then the treadmill will set it up and make adjustments to help you reach it.

Some of the options include:

→ Time goals

→ Distance goals

→ Heart Rate Zone Training

→ Intervals

→ + more!

Option 3: Performance

The Skillrun also has a few advanced performance features if you’re looking to add a little more challenge or variety to your workouts.

Check out our recent Skillrun social media post for video instructions on how to use these features!

Sled Mode

Sled training simulates pushing a heavy sled on grass. Instead of the belt moving for you, it provides resistance and you have to physically drive it forward with your legs.

This mode is great for improving sprinting, explosive power, acceleration, and lower-body strength.

To use it:

1. Select Sled.
2. Choose your desired settings.
3. Grab the front sled handles.
4. Lean slightly forward and begin driving the belt with your legs.

Parachute Mode

Parachute mode is designed to simulate sprinting against increasing resistance.

Unlike Sled mode, where the resistance stays relatively constant, Parachute mode becomes harder the faster you run. It mimics the feeling of sprinting with a resistance parachute attached behind you.

This mode is great for working on running speed, power, and maximum velocity.

To use it:

1. Attach the parachute attachment if you’d like, or use the handles for stability without it.
2. Select Parachute from the Performance menu.
3. Choose your desired settings.
4. Begin running.
5. As your speed increases, you’ll feel the resistance increase too.

Run Against Resistance

Run Against Resistance applies a steady backward force while you run, making you work harder to maintain your speed.

Unlike Sled mode, you’re running normally rather than pushing the belt from a forward-leaning position.

This mode is great for building strength endurance, improving running form, and making your normal running pace more challenging.

To use it:

1. Select Run Against Resistance from the Performance menu.
2. Choose your desired settings.
3. Begin running.
4. Maintain your pace as you work against the resistance.

Option 4: Sessions

Sessions are coach-led workouts that cover a variety of performance goals, such as endurance, sprint capacity, and push power.

Just choose a session that fits your goal and your on-screen coach will guide you!

Option 5: Routines

The Skillrun also includes a variety of built-in Routines designed around different training goals.

These workouts use some of the advanced functions and automatically adjust your speed, incline, and other settings throughout the session, so you can simply follow along.

Some examples include:

Leg Strengthening: Focus on leg strengthening with a varied interval training

Cardio Fit Routine: Enhance your stamina with flat and uphill interval runs

Power Routine: Strengthen your legs with sled pushes, uphill runs, and lunges

Which Features Should You Try?

Here are a few ideas based on what you’re looking for.

If You Want Better Cardio

Try:

→ Up, Up, and Up Again Session

→ Stamina Routine

→ Cardio Fit Routine

→ Bootcamp Mode

If You Want to Build Strength or Power

Try:

→ Refine Leg Strength Session

→ Power Routine

→ Leg Strengthening Routine

→ Sled Mode

If You’re Training for Running Performance

Try:

→ Learn the Technique Session

→ Winning Pace Session

→ Agility Booster Routine

→ Parachute or Run Against Resistance modes

Want to Test Yourself?

Under the Custom menu, you’ll find a Tests tab with a variety of maximal tests, including things like push power, VO2 max, and more!

Need Help Getting Started?

The Skillrun is one of the most versatile pieces of cardio equipment, but it can be a bit confusing when you’re first starting out.

If you’re not sure where to start, want help setting up a workout, or just want someone to show you how a feature works, set up a consultation with one of our trainers!