Treadmill vs. Outdoor Running — Pros and Cons
Statistics demonstrate that running on a treadmill and outdoor running have their own levels of popularity in the United States. The wholesale consumer sales of treadmills in the country surpassed $1.5 billion in 2020. Regarding running, a 2020 Sports & Fitness Industry Association report disclosed that approximately 50 million Americans engaged in running or jogging of some form. People with an interest in taking up running may want to acquaint themselves with the pros and cons of outdoor running and treadmills for the best experience possible.
In the case of treadmills, these machines offer a simple solution for people seeking to lose weight. There is a positive correlation between the amount of time spent running on a treadmill and calories burned. Additionally, using a treadmill is advantageous for maintaining a healthy heart and regulating cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Compared to outdoor running, treadmills also put less strain on the legs, knees, and ankles. They provide a softer surface to run on, and shock-absorption features on these machines reduce the impact on joints.
Furthermore, runners can more easily establish a consistent schedule with treadmills, as unfavorable temperatures or weather conditions do not affect a person’s ability to use one. Treadmills also offer a higher level of privacy for runners who own one at home and do not feel comfortable with outdoor running.
However, there are some disadvantages to consider regarding treadmills. Treadmill users also need to contend with the noise generated by the machine, which can be distracting. Runners who use a treadmill that they own may find it challenging to maintain its condition due to time and financial constraints. Lack of regular maintenance impairs the running experience, an issue not applicable to outdoor running. Another drawback associated with treadmills is the stationary movement and unchanged surroundings. Running on a treadmill involves mental concentration to sustain a consistent pace, but it can eventually feel repetitive for some runners.
In contrast, outdoor running offers a more diverse environment with a greater level of interaction. Some studies also indicate that sunlight, fresh breeze, trees, and other natural features make exercising outdoors more enjoyable than indoors for many people. In addition, outdoor running leads to increased calorie loss. Outdoor areas introduce factors that enable runners to burn more calories than they would on a treadmill, such as variations in terrain, undulations in the road, and wind resistance that require extra effort. Exerting more energy also means a better workout for building muscle and increasing leg strength. Moreover, outdoor running is more cost-effective than treadmills, as runners spend less.
Among the downsides of outdoor running is the higher likelihood of injuries. External environments are less controlled, making it is easier for runners to trip, fall, and sustain cuts and bruises. Outdoor running also involves other potential hazards, including cars and limited visibility if runners do not return home before dark. In addition, weather conditions influence outdoor running. People who prefer outdoor running increase their chances of injury or may put themselves in danger by going out in poor weather.
Originally published at http://marlaeskin.wordpress.com on May 4, 2022.
