Table of contents:
- Run outdoors
- Route variations
- Surface variations
- Weather conditions
- Cost
- Running on the treadmill
- Constant environment
- Speed
- Less impact on joints
- So, running on the treadmill or outdoors?
At first glance, running outdoors and on a treadmill is a very similar exercise. Both use the same muscle groups and require both forward movement and body movement. What's more, these two activities can help improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance, reduce body fat percentage, and tone and strengthen leg and core muscles. However, if we take a closer look, there are some differences between running outdoors and on a treadmill. Let's take a look at the differences below!
Run outdoors
Route variations
The good thing about outdoor running is that you have an infinite number of routes to walk. You may want to go a different route depending on your mood. For example, you can choose a linear route to run towards your final destination. Or you can also choose a circular route that will take you back to where you started.
However, if you want to continue improving your fitness and burning the optimal number of calories, you will need to change your running route regularly to prevent your body from getting used to your routine.
Surface variations
Outdoor running challenges you with an unpredictable route surface compared to on a treadmill. This has the benefit of being a balance and coordination exercise. You have to work hard to keep your balance on uneven terrain, such as cracks on the pavement, bumps in the field, etc.
Road and sidewalk surfaces are easy to predict. If you are a beginner, running in mild surface conditions is probably the safest thing to do. Make sure that you pay attention to traffic signs and wear high-visibility clothing. You should stay on the sidewalk whenever possible, but if you have to be on the highway, stay on the side of the road and watch any vehicles approaching you.
Running on the sand will test your endurance so you will burn more calories. Especially if the sand you step on is soft sand, it will be more difficult for you to move forward, so that the energy you exert will be even greater.
Weather conditions
When you want to run outdoors, the weather is often the determining factor. If the clouds are getting dark or there are raindrops, you will definitely cancel the wish. However, exercise will be more effective if done regularly, once a week is not enough. We know that Indonesia has 2 seasons. So, when you run outside during the rainy season, you must wear clothes that are suitable for the weather conditions at that time.
Cost
One of the advantages of running outdoors is that you don't have to spend any money at all. It may cost you some money to buy some of the equipment you need to run, but it will still be much cheaper than joining a gym or buying a treadmill.
Running on the treadmill
Constant environment
Although some people view this exercise as expensive and boring, treadmills offer a constant environment for exercise as temperature, humidity, and running surface remain the same.
In this regard, running on the treadmill can be considered a more comfortable form of exercise than running outside. You don't have to consider the weather, light levels or traffic. Once you are on the treadmill, you have few external factors that can interfere with your activities.
Speed
The treadmill allows the runner to set the pace and maintain it. This is useful if you are practicing for a specific purpose. It can also help you to keep going when you lose your willpower.
On the treadmill, you have to make a conscious decision to press a button to slow down your running speed. If you run outside, you will naturally slow down without realizing it because your body responds to the fatigue you feel.
Less impact on joints
Running on a treadmill is safer on the joints than running on a road or concrete pavement. If you run regularly, including some exercise on the treadmill, you will reduce the impact on your joints and your risk of injury. If you are recovering from an injury or have problems with your joints, a treadmill offers a way to gradually rebuild your workout.
So, running on the treadmill or outdoors?
The difference between running outdoors and on a treadmill you can use to your advantage. You can set aside 2-3 days to run outdoors, which will further challenge and condition you. Then on another day, for 2-3 days, try running on the treadmill to build up speed by increasing your stride for a short period of time. The change in scenery will also motivate you to stick to this exercise routine.
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