Outdoor running vs treadmill running

For many people, running on the treadmill is preferable, while some prefer outdoor running. But, the first thing we need to examine is whether running on a treadmill is the same as running outside.
On one hand, with a treadmill, the belt is moving under you and there is no wind resistance for your body to counter, so it should be easier to run. Theoretically, you could jump up and down on a treadmill and it would record that you’re running at whatever speed the belt is moving. Outside, your legs have to propel your motion forward while pushing through the resulting wind resistance (however minor it may be). Luckily, scientific research has proven that setting the treadmill to a 1% grade accurately reflects the energy costs and simulates outdoor running. Therefore, by setting the treadmill to a 1% grade, you can offset the lack of wind resistance and the belt moving under you to make treadmill running the same effort as running outdoors.

The Advantages of Outdoor Running over the Treadmill

Most at times, the treadmill is chosen over outdoor running, but don't just choose without knowing the advantages which outdoor running has over th short-comings of treadmill running.

1. The treadmill is boring

For many runners, running on the treadmill is boring. Without scenery passing you by and something to take your mind off the blinking lights in front of you, it’s too easy to look at the clock every 30 seconds and get discouraged that more time hasn’t passed since your last glance. But, when you’re running a tough workout outside, you can “feel” the finish line getting closer and you have a more natural sense of the distance remaining. On a treadmill, your mind can’t visualize the finish line, so it becomes harder to concentrate when the pace gets hard and you need to push yourself. In my opinion, you should approach running on a treadmill like you should with everything in life – in moderation. The treadmill can be a great training tool and essential for those of us who live in harsh weather environments (both hot and cold).

.2You can't pace on a treadmill

When running on a treadmill, it’s easy to “set it and forget it” and just lock into a target pace. Unfortunately, this method doesn’t teach you how to properly find and maintain pace on your own. As a consequence, you stunt the development of your internal effort and pacing instincts.

Advantages of treadmill over real running

Although there is no considerable difference between using treadmill and outdoor running, there are some ways in which the treadmill is better than outdoor running. Theses are:

1. Bad Weather and footing

This is the most obvious benefit of treadmill running, but it’s important to include because elements effect every runner differently. Personally, I have a very difficult time when it’s hot or there is bad footing; however, put me on a clear road on a cold or rainy day and I’m a machine. You may be the opposite, so don’t be afraid to hit the treadmill on the days you need to. Getting in a good workout on the treadmill is better than suffering through a bad run or getting hurt.

2. Helps you to learn how to drink or eat while running

As I’ve discussed many times, it’s critical that you practice taking in fluids and carbohydrates on your runs to teach yourself how to eat and drink without stopping. Obviously, this can be a logistical nightmare if you don’t plan on carrying your water or gels with you. Running a tempo run or long run on the treadmill will allow you to practice eating and drinking without slowing down. While the treadmill won’t make the actual act of eating or drinking any easier, it can make it logistically possible.