Is It Better to Run on a Treadmill or Outside?

Running is a sport with millions of passionate, knowledgeable enthusiastOne major question elicits many different opinions among runners: Which is better, running on a treadmill or running outsidProponents of both approaches share a love of running. However, some outdoor runners believe treadmill running is monotonous and boring, while treadmill runners may prefer running in a controlled environmentFortunately, you can reap benefits from either type of runninThis article reviews the pros and cons of treadmill and outdoor running to help you decide which is best for you.
Treadmill runniA treadmill is an exercise machine with a controllable rotating belt that you can walk or run on. Treadmills are available in most workofacilities, or you can purchase one yourself in stores or onlinePOne of the biggest advantages of using a treadmill is its accessibility. Since most treadmills are indoors, you can use it day or night and in any climate. This can make running more accessible for those who exercise at night or live in places with ever-changing weatheMost advocates of treadmill running enjoy the various functions a treadmill can offer, such as precise control of their pace, incline, and intervals. This is also helpful for those returning from an injury, as they can progress slowly on a treadmill in a more controlled environmenFor example, running outside may pose a greater risk to someone returning from an ankle injury because of factors like uneven ground and slippery sidewalkFinally, running on a treadmill may be better for your joints since most treadmills have cushioned belts to absorb some of the impact. In contrast, hard ground, especially sidewalks and roads, will notContrary to popular belief, most research shows that neither form of running causes knee or joint damage (1Trusted Source). CoUnlike outdoor running, during which you can be surrounded by forests or beautiful greenery, indoor treadmill running involves staying in a fixed place where the treadmill is located. Some say this can become boring over timHowever, many modern treadmills provide screens to simulate an outdoor run, which may make the experience more enjoyable. Nonetheless, many argue this will never live up to running outdoorAdditionally, one study shows conflicting findings looking at muscle activity during treadmill running compared to outdoor running. Some studies report lower muscle activity on the treadmill, whereas other studies find no difference. This may be due to the treadmill belt propelling you forward, making it ever so slightly easier for you to stay in motion (2Trusted Source). Many runners report a less natural and shorter stride with treadmill running due to the limited parameters of the treadmill. However, this is controversial. A 2020 study found no significant differences in gait stride between treadmill and outdoor running (2Trusted SourceFinally, one of the biggest downsides of treadmill running is the cost. Treadmills are available to use at the gym for $10 or more per month, while purchasing your own treadmill can rangehundreds to thousands of dollarsSUMMATreadmill running is convenient, accessible, and lower impact than outdoor running. However, it tends to be more expensivrequires fewer muscle groups, and some people find that the unchanging environment can become borinOutdoor runnOutdoor running involves running outdoors on a trail, path, sidewalk, or any other outdoor terraiPMost runners find outdoor running far more enjoyable than treadmill running due to the changing scenery, fresh air, challenge of uneven ground, and unlimitoptions for running routesThe increased variety can increase a person’s motivation to continue exercising (3Trusted SourcThough both treadmill and outdoor running bring health benefits, such as lower blood pressure, greater endurance, and lower risk of depression, outdoor running may give additional benefits simply by helping you feel more connected to nature (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

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