Outdoor Running and Treadmill Running – Which One Is Good?

Runners have their preferences and styles. Some love to running outdoors, while others prefer to use treadmills. Although both types are great for burning calories, each option has certain plus and minus points. Let us see which one you would pick if you wish to keep up your fitness after 40.

Are these two running options different from one another?

The primary difference between treadmill and outdoor running lies in the environmental settings, but both offer cardio health benefits. Biomechanical differences are minor, with evidence indicating more similarities. Outdoors may be more physically demanding due to weather and terrain. Treadmills allow you to run in a more controlled environment.

Running on treadmill

Pros:

1. Accessible and convenient – You can use a treadmill anytime in the year, irrespective of weather conditions.
2. Features available to customize your runs – Treadmills have many features and programs that you may not get outdoor.
3. Easier on your joints – The treadmill is designed to offer minimum discomfort to your joints. While running outside, you may run on unknown surfaces.
4. Allow you to multitask – You can watch TV or read books on the big screen while using a treadmill.

Cons:

1. It cannot fully replace outdoor running – You cannot replicate the experience of running outside despite the range of available features.
2. Soon, it may get boring – Sooner than later, you may get bored with it, and your machine may remain unused.
3. Some find it harder – For some people, treadmill run may feel harder than doing it outdoors.
4. There are chances of injury – Treadmills can sometimes malfunction and cause accidents and injuries. 
5. It is expensive to own one – Buying a treadmill for home use can be expensive for many. Also, you will need to keep spending on maintenance. It is not so expensive if you use the machines at the gym.

This option must be preferred if you want to protect yourself from harsh weather and unexpected changes in surroundings.

Running outdoors

Pros:

1. You can enjoy nature – You get fresh air outside and can enjoy it.
2. Offers more variety – You can change your route and get more variety.
3. It will work different muscles – Outside terrain may constantly change, like you may run to go uphill or downhill, make turns, jump over small obstacles, etc. On the other hand, the track on treadmills remains the same. Hence, outdoor running can stimulate different muscles. 
4. Totally free – You need not spend on the equipment. All you need is a good pair of running shoes.

Cons:

1. During bad weather, it is risky – Running outside is risky if it is raining or snowing. Also, it is highly uncomfortable to run long distances with soggy socks. Treadmills may be your only option in such weather conditions.
2. May cause injury – Due to different terrains or traffic on the road, there is always a chance of accidents. You will need to be highly alert if you love to do outdoor running.
3. Can be dangerous – Outdoor runs at night can pose safety risks due to low visibility for drivers. You could also get attacked by pets or stray dogs.

Many runners prefer outdoors but switch to treadmills during harsh weather conditions. It does not matter which one you prefer, as long as you are consistent with your efforts to achieve your best fitness after 40.