The Uphill Battle of the 12-3-30 Workout

Workout challenges are a great way to simplify exercise with a quick and easy routine. So whatever your fitness goals may be, these challenges can help you keep on track.

One workout challenge that has gained a lot of traction in recent years is called 12-3-30. This is a cardio workout on the treadmill with the 3 numbers representing 3 different settings. You walk on the treadmill with the incline set at 12, at a speed of 3 miles per hour for 30 minutes.

While it sounds simple, maintaining your walk at these settings for 30 minutes isn’t something everyone can do from the jump. The best way to work around this is to start at a lower speed, incline, or both before working up to doing the numbers that are the namesake of this fitness challenge. 

Walking is an underrated type of workout since it’s something most people already do every day. But it can be a workout in its own right, focusing on the muscles in your core and legs. Walking can also help you increase your stamina. 

The 12-3-30 workout gives you a chance to practice walking at speed in a (hopefully) air-conditioned environment. You could use it as a stepping stone to prepare to go hiking. It’s also great practice if you’re going on holiday, as it’s easy to take thousands of steps when you go sightseeing. 

So if you’re looking for something to do as a warm-up, cool down or the main part of your exercise at the gym, the 12-3-30 routine gives you a simple-to-follow and natural way to meet your fitness goals. 

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