I know what you mean
I do most of my running on a treadmill in the evening in front of cable news or a football game or a good movie...it's a high quality machine and puts a lot less stress on my knees than running outdoors on the street.
Also, on those occasions I visit a fitness center I LOVE those Precor elliptical machines! Great low impact workout. Maybe someday I'll buy one.
I did 4.1 miles tonight while watching Penn State kick Nebraska's ass 40-7.