Running On A Treadmill vs. Outside: Which Is Better?

running on a treadmill vs. outside: which is better?

Running is a popular form of cardio activity that has millions of passionate followers. Experts believe running is among the best exercises which does not need any equipment and so you can do it just about anywhere or anytime it is convenient for you for overall health benefits.

Just 10 minutes of moderate running can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases, provide regulated sleep, improve knee and back health, better your mood, energy, and concentration, and of course help with weight management and body toning.

However, one major question elicits many different opinions among runners – Which is better, running on a treadmill or running outside?

Treadmill

A treadmill is a machine with a rotating belt that you can walk or run on and is easily available to exercise either in a gym or for personal use.

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Experts believe the biggest advantage of using a treadmill is that it provides accessibility and can be used at any time of the day in any weather. This would make sure of a running routine for you.

Also, it helps reduce injuries that you may sustain while running in a natural environment, including twisting ankles due to slippery, uneven ground.

Also, according to doctors, running on a treadmill is better for your joints since they are protected with cushioned belts to absorb some of the impact. 1

However, studies say that muscle activity during treadmill running is lower as compared to the outside environment, due to lesser energy spent because of the treadmill belt. Also, even if you run at the same pace on a treadmill, you will expend more energy running outdoors due to variations in terrain, weather, and wind conditions. 2

According to many fitness coaches, since there are no turns on a treadmill, limiting your ability to improve your lateral agility as well.

Outside running

Those who love nature would spend most of their time outside, even when they want to exercise. 3

According to the proponents of running outside, not only it is inexpensive but makes a great way to socialise apart from working out.

Running outdoors is also a great way to check out a new place if you are traveling, and you do not need to give yourself a break either.

Many studies also say outdoors can build stronger bones since you are running on harder surfaces which allows for greater gravitational force and stress on the bones, which boosts bone metabolism. 4

Making a choice

If you want to maintain your health goals, experts believe a treadmill can provide all you need. Pair the exercise with an accurate pulse monitor, and you will be able to push yourself appropriately while keeping well within your maximum heart rate. On the other hand, when training for a racing or long-distance running event, you can benefit more from running outside.

So, whatever your fitness goals are, you can choose based on your personal preference. The choice between treadmill running or running outside doesn’t have to be an either-or decision. When you lace up and get moving, choose the best route for you.

A combination of both may work for you and if it is practical and fits your schedule, you will achieve the maximum from both.