Treadmills vs outside. Differences?

[killer_carlson]

I'm trying to get back in shape. Slowly.

I've been at the treadmill and going to a boot camp during the winter and have noticed some increase in my cardio and certainly in my leg strength.

However, yesterday and again today I tried running outside and it kicked my arse. Today I wasn't planning on running, but the instructor for boot camp forgot his keys to the place we usually do it, so instead we went for a run.

Talk to me about running outside and why it sucks way more than running on a treadmill.

[flamesfan6]

im the opposite, i hate standing in one spot to do running

[KielC]

Originally Posted by flamesfan6

im the opposite, i hate standing in one spot to do running

+1

[Ice]

I tend to run faster on the treadmill because its set at a certain speed and I'm forced to keep up. When I run outside, I'm constantly distracted, I know I'm going slower to take in views, but the fresh air is nice. I usually do a run/walk combo and I think I walk more outside than inside. Plus there are always people out and about and it would be rude to run by without stopping for a greeting.

[HelloHockeyFans]

There are pretty good arguments for both sides and it seems like it varies from person to person. On one side, people say running on a treadmill takes more mental strength since it's a lot more boring to be in one spot for however long you run vs. running outside where there's other things to keep your mind occupied and off the actual running. Then there's the hard ground and its impact on your joints and the uneven road that is harder to run on... personally, I hate running on the treadmill and do all my running outside or on the track at the gym. The only time I'm on the tread is when I'm at another location of my gym that doesn't have an indoor track.

[bigtmac19]

I'm pretty novice at running, but I definitely prefer outside than the treadmill.

I know my pace is not as constant outdoors, but to me even running the same distance, it feels much longer on the treadmill, I know that doesn't make sense really, it's just a perception thing.

[Shazam]

Which is the one that'll keep your fat ass moving without you feeling like you hate it? That's the one you want to do.

[ricoFlame]

they're completely different. creating your own propulsion vs. maintaining position on moving belt. I do both, but I prefer being outside, i find it easier to challenge myself and nothing has to be set in stone, plus when you're outside you can do an out and back so that you have no choice but to run back home or wherever.

[metallicat]

I don't think the two are really even comparable. The amount of work it takes to run a mile outside, is way more than what it takes to run a mile on the treadmill.

I really have to get back to running.

[bigtmac19]

Originally Posted by ricoFlame

they're completely different. creating your own propulsion vs. maintaining position on moving belt. I do both, but I prefer being outside, i find it easier to challenge myself and nothing has to be set in stone, plus when you're outside you can do an out and back so that you have no choice but to run back home or wherever.

Yes, I prefer the out and back, it seems quicker to me that way.
That's how we did it in my running class anyway.

[the_only_turek_fan]

Running outside is much better. The hard road is bad for your joints, but with the right shoes and the right knee strengthening excersizes you should be ok. It is just harder and therefore a better work out. If you live in NW Calgary and are not scared of dogs, go to Nose Hill Park. Its the best place for a good afternoon run. The path along Memorial is good, but packed.

Go to running room or somewhere equivalent and get good shoes. Spend the $200. Trust me.

[KTrain]

Outside is great for the fresh air but for motivation I find a treadmill, TV/DVD and a tv series box set works great. An hour long show lets you get in a decent run and a few other exercises. If you only watch the show while on the treadmill you'll be more inclined to go for a run or a walk.

It's sad that TV motivates me to get on my treadmill.

[Shazam]

Originally Posted by the_only_turek_fan

Running outside is much better. The hard road is bad for your joints, but with the right shoes and the right knee strengthening excersizes you should be ok. It is just harder and therefore a better work out. If you live in NW Calgary and are not scared of dogs, go to Nose Hill Park. Its the best place for a good afternoon run. The path along Memorial is good, but packed.

It's great motivation. I just look for a hot girl and run behind her until the police stop me.

[Azure]

I think there is a huge difference.

Running wise, not cardio wise. Obviously if you practice on the treadmill all winter long, and then go outside, your outside running skills will be lacking.

But if you consistently run on a treadmill inside, and push yourself accordingly, you'll still be in good cardio shape. Then its just a matter of getting used to running outside again.

[HelloHockeyFans]

Originally Posted by Shazam

It's great motivation. I just look for a hot girl and run behind her until the police stop me.

[MRCboicgy]

What is this running that you all speak of?

[Dan02]

Originally Posted by Shazam

It's great motivation. I just look for a hot girl and run behind her until the police stop me.

Find a hot girl on a treadmill and run behind her and you never have to worry about her getting away.

[Engine09]

I bought a treadmill 3 years ago after slipping on some ice while running and twisting my knee. Best money I ever spent.

Weather is bad? No more excuses, watch some hockey and run for an hour.

As for differences, you can still get a damn good workout using the incline and sprinting. Easier on the joints also like someone already mentioned.

[ruddstud]

birds, rocks.....

[MoneyGuy]

I've trained for and run four marathons. Outside is better than a treadmill. Wayyyyyyy better. Especially in summer when the ladies are out.