Walking and running -- outside or on a treadmill -- are effective exercises to shed extra pounds. However, working out outdoors has its problems. Very hot or cold temperatures, not to mention rain and snow, can make outdoor exercise difficult or impossible. Using a treadmill as an alternative to lose weight avoids weather problems and offers other advantages as well.
Description
If you are seeking to lose weight, using a treadmill compares just fine to walking or running outdoors, according to Running Planet. You'll burn the same number of calories and get the same physical fitness and health benefits. You can buy your own treadmill or use one at a nearby gym. A treadmill allows you to set a constant pace and keeps track of the distance you've covered. Many come with features to estimate calories burned and to monitor your heart rate.
Advantages
Avoiding inclement weather is only one of the advantages for the treadmill user trying to lose weight. You do not have to worry about hazards such as aggressive dogs or careless drivers. Because you can set a constant pace, you avoid unintentionally slowing down and reducing the quality of your workout and the number of calories you burn. You can set the treadmill to an incline to simulate running uphill or vary the speed to facilitate speed training. Because the treadmill provides a smooth, cushioned surface, you lower your risk of leg injuries which could mean no workouts at all.
Considerations
Treadmills don't precisely duplicate outdoors exercise. For the individual who is simply trying to lose weight or get in shape this isn't a concern, says Running Planet. If you eventually decide to try running in races, you will want to do at least some of your training outdoors to gain experience with real road conditions. As with outdoor exercise, a good pair of walking or running, shoes is a must. Drinking plenty of water is also vital. When you use a treadmill, there's no wind to cool you, so you are likely to sweat more.
Calories Burned
To lose weight through exercise, you have to burn calories. MayoClinic.com says it takes about 3,500 calories to lose a pound. Your pace and your size are the main factors determining how many calories you burn. For example, a 200-pound person will use about 728 calories in an hour of jogging at 5 mph.
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