I've never been able to read while using treadmill or elliptical. Between the bifocals and the vibrations there is just too much movement for me to focus on the print. To alleviate boredom I listen to books on tape (or CD). I'm often laughing out loud listening to some books, and other days I work out a little longer cause I'm at a real good part and can't put the "book" down. Get them at the library, and stay away from the abridged volumes - they really leave out too much stuff to follow the story decently. Hope this helps.