Running On Treadmill Vs. Running Outside

Running is an intense cardiovascular exercise that burns more calories than most other activities such as walking or swimming. It offers several physical and psychological benefits. A regular running habit helps you lose weight, build up lean tissue, strengthen your bones, alleviate stress and feel good about yourself. When the weather is favorable, running outdoors can be a pleasant pastime and a great exercise. However, indoor running on a treadmill offers its own advantages.

Workout Options

On a treadmill, you can choose from a variety of workout options and vary the speed and incline from time to time. While you can control your speed outdoors as well, incline training may be difficult, unless you train in a hilly area. Treadmills offer different features such as calorie counters and heart rate monitors that guide you so that you can work out at peak efficiency. Preset programs that have a set time interval and automatically varying speeds and incline levels are good options for interval training.

Risk of Injury

The decks or running surfaces on most treadmills are made of shock-absorbent material that protects users from injury. Running is a high-impact, weight-bearing exercise that can be jarring on the joints. Outdoor running surfaces are usually hard and sometimes uneven. There is no cushioning effect, and risk of stress injuries is higher as compared to treadmill running.

Safety

Treadmill running is safer than outdoor running because it is independent of weather conditions, traffic and other unfavorable elements. During inclement weather, you have to take several precautions and dress carefully if you plan to run outdoors. You must also be vigilant about traffic and avoid secluded areas or dimly lit streets. Running in a group may be a safer option for outdoor runners. When you run on a treadmill in the safety of your home or the gym, you can focus on your workout and entertain yourself with TV or music as you exercise.

Wind Resistance

Running outdoors may burn more calories than running at the same pace and incline on a treadmill. The increase in calorie exemption is attributable to wind resistance. You also have to work harder to move on a pavement as compared to a moving treadmill belt. However, to increase calorie expenditure on a treadmill, you can increase the incline and also run at a faster pace.

Convenience and Cost

Treadmills generally cost at least $500, and high-end models may set you back by several thousands. If you plan to purchase one, you must have adequate space in your home. Running outdoors requires minimal investment. All you need is a good pair of running shoes and comfortable clothing. However, the investment on a treadmill may be beneficial for users trying to avoid joint injury and for those who want to run on a regular basis, regardless of the weather.