Is it better to run on a tredmill or outside?

Question

when i run on the tredmil it seems like ill get a different effect becasue its easier then running outside is there a difference

Answer 1

I used to run some (I was in the military). I like running outside when the weather is nice. But treadmills can help. I used them before when I need help setting a pace because a treadmill forces you to run at the same pace.  My pace is what kills my run.

One thing you can do to make a treadmill more challenging is raise the incline. Start at 1 % and go up from there. (The Navy requires a 1% incline if you use a tredmill to take your fitness test on ). Just take your time and raise the incline in small amounts as you get more accustomed to it.

Also change the running surfaces outside. Run on pavement one day and run on dirt/grass the next. This helps. Also do hills. It also keeps it more interesting.

I would use both. Sometimes it is just not safe or practical to run outside. Too dark, too wet, too much trafic, too many dogs, what ever there are too much of. Some people run outside no matter what. I guess it is all in what you like and feel comfortable with.

These days I am a walker. I gave up running when I got out of the Navy. It hurts my knees too much.

Answer 2

Weather permitting, I'm actually one of the people who would say running outside is better.  Getting fresh air is good for your mind and body, and catching some rays is good too (mmm Vitamin D ha), as long you wear sunblock.  Besides the nature talk though, you really do get a better work out running outside because you are talking about running on a variety of surfaces and a variety of inclines/declines.  Variety is more than just "the spice of life", it's also the best way your body gets exercise and/or builds muscle.

ps I find that running on a treadmill can also hurt your ankles because of the added resistance with every step.  The sidewalk doesn't move in the opposite direction as you run on it.

Answer 3

OUTSIDE IS SOOOO MUCH BETTER! take it from me, I run all of my miles outside and It helps. My best time is 5:40

Answer 4

It depends if you are training for a race or just running to stay in shape.  On a treadmill, you do not have all the outside elements, such as wind, heat and surfaces.  If you are training for a race, you will need to get used to the outside elements.  If you are only running for fitness, then it does not matter where you run, as long as you run the time/distance you set out to do.

Good luck!

Answer 5

usually running on a treadmill is easier on your knees because of the even surface.

Answer 6

which ever you prefer

they feel different because the ground is uneven and the surfaces are different when you're outside..

on a treadmill you're on the same exact even surface ever time you take a step