Running on the treadmill versus outdoors. Which one is better?
Running, or jogging if you’re like us, is one of the best forms of exercise; it improves cardiovascular health as well as strengthens muscles and increases bone density. But where’s the best place to run? Inside or out? Treadmill or track? It’s one of the most common questions and has become quite a contentious debate, but we weigh in with the pros and cons so you can make your own decision.
Why it is different
If you run at the same pace on a flat treadmill as your jog around the block, you will not get the same workout. You expend less energy on the treadmill as there is no terrain changes, wind resistance and no help from the treadmill belt propelling you forward.
What you can do
But that’s not to say you should forgo treadmills all together; in order to achieve a similar result, studies have found that simply raising the treadmill incline by one per cent will give you the same energy expenditure as running outdoors on flat ground. So by setting the treadmill to at least a one per cent angle, you can offset the wind resistance and moving belt to simulate running outdoors. That’s to say, with some adjustments, running on a treadmill is the same as running outdoors.
However, people run indoors and outdoors for different reasons, so the answer to which one is better is they can be the same and what you choose depends on what works best for you.
The pros of treadmill running:
- As you’re indoors, there’s no weather, temperature, or terrain issues. It’s always possible to run on a treadmill whereas bad weather can prevent you from running outside.
- The smooth, cushioned surface is easier on joints.
- Generally, there are no safety issues like getting hurt from falling down.
- You can create your own running course by adjusting pace and incline level.
The pros of outdoor running:
- The changes in terrain or temperature generally offer more of a challenge.
- You can enjoy the scenery and fresh air.
- Generally, you feel more accomplished when finishing at outdoor run.
- You can’t just “set it and forget it” like a treadmill; running outdoors helps you become more aware of your body’s ability.
Related links:
4 signs your body is trying to tell you something
The best ways to exercise outdoors
How to start running at any age