Treadmills vs outside. Differences?

[Red Ice Player]

I run but I'm not a runner. There is no half or full marathon in my goals. The training that events like that require would cut seriously into my golfing time. On the other hand, using my treadmill I put in at least 100 miles a month year round and have healthy knees and ankles. I know that many "outdoor only" runners like to look down their noses at us treadmill wimps but I'll bet I'm just as fit as most of them and more fit than a lot of them. All of my running is on inclines and I can mix in my walk intervals using precise timing. My cool down walks at the end can consist of a nice gradual tapering of my speed with a couple of nice long stretches when I'm done. Its exercise, a means to an end. I'm not looking for some zen experience when I run, just a healthier body. My treadmill was the best money I've ever spent.

[Cowperson]

Originally Posted by Red Ice Player

I'm not looking for some zen experience when I run, just a healthier body. My treadmill was the best money I've ever spent.

I'm in it for the Zen. Seriously.

Running that much on a treadmill would drive me batpoop.

However, everyone is different and getting to the right place is what's important. Congrats on trimming up.

Cowperson

[FlamesAddiction]

I don't know why, but I get a much better work out when running outside. The fresh air and breeze really helps keep you cool as well. Unless it's the dog days of summer, in which case I prefer the gym.

But I agree with the OP. For some reason, treadmills are like easy mode for me and running outside kicks the crap out of me, even if I find it less boring.