How effective is running on a treadmill compared to running outdoors?

Outdoor running advantages over treadmills

Did you know that running increases good cholesterol (HDL) levels as well as improving the health of the respiratory system? Well, regular physical activity has several benefits, especially running.

Typically, hobby and avid runners go out for a run or use a treadmill. Both are very popular activities in running. However, a debate persists as to which is more effective over the other.

Experts have studied and debated for years without a conclusion satisfactory.
And so now, we have addressed the topic by comparing the two different running disciplines by analyzing the advantages and disadvantages.


The pros of the treadmill and outdoor running

Indoor running treadmill

Running on a treadmill has its respective benefits. You don't have to limit yourself to clothing or fear developing ankle problems. With a comfortable machine that reduces shock to your joints, you can enjoy your fitness activity like never beforerimby now.

To start from scratch, perhaps the treadmill represents an advantage over outdoor running because it has a greater ability to absorb shocks (a very valid point for individuals who have the objective of slimming down).rimento). The padded surface absorbs shocks in a completely opposite way to asphalt and, therefore, induces less stress on ankles and joints.

Plus, when you're on the treadmill, you can accomplish about 2-3 other tasks, like browsing that site you don't have time for. You can listen to music or maybe flip through a magazine. This is only for fast walking or running workouts.

Plus, it keeps your fitness program independent. You don't have to depend on the weather to determine whether you can go for a run today or not. Being indoors, you can set a schedule and perform only according to your training needs.

When it comes to running outdoors, however, know that it also has numerous respective benefits. Variable terrain teaches better lessons in running technique than cushioned terrain. Helps strengthen endurance. The accompanying challenges build a sporting spirit and allow us to fully love nature.

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Weigh the cons

Treadmills can have great advantages, but the cons should not be overlooked either. According to CPSC reports, treadmills cause approximately 24.000 injuries each year in the United States. These injuries include both short- and long-term effects.

  • Short term (sprains, falls and injuries)
  • Long-term (cardiovascular problems due to overwork)

Also, treadmills are stationary. You can't go downhill or uphill. (These movements strengthen the leg muscles.)

You can't even do intervals. AND, Nowadays, running with a door in front of you for long periods can be particularly boring.

In fact, you can listen to music and podcasts. You can watch your much-loved shows and movies. But how long will it take primuntil entertainment turns into boredom?

Well, in the case of running outdoors, you can see different things every day. And let's not forget those out-of-control cars, cyclists blinded by footsteps and our feline friends waiting to pounce on any passerby.

Even outdoors it can be a challenge. The rule of racing with common sense applies, respecting the rules of the road.


Exercise and the new norm

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Both outdoor running and treadmill running have their benefits and also their limitations. However, the circumstances of the 2020 global pandemic have raised the demand for purchasing treadmills.

Isolated and socially distant, the new norm recommends staying locked in your homes. The more you are indoors, physically distant from others, the safer you will be.

Well, in quarantine, the majority of running enthusiasts have been spending their time inside. They haven't seen the outdoors for weeks, if not months!

In such a circumstance, where outdoor life was a red zone and people worked from home, treadmills proved to be an efficient way to run. You can do all the required physical activity and rimget fit without fear of violating the imposed rules.

Well, the convenience and ease offered by treadmills during the pandemic have opened up a new dimension of exercise at a desk.
Believe it or not, treadmills allow person to train in front of the desk!


 Verdict

Analyzing the pros and cons, the advice is to alternate the treadmill in the colder months to avoid injuries caused by the cold and to run outdoors as soon as the temperatures rise.
The treadmill remains a valid option for days of adverse weather so as not to interrupt or modify the training plan.



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