What is the best surface to run on for less impact on your joints?

Question

I hear grass and sand are th best but Id like some other opinions from some long time runners

Answer 1

Grass definately. I had a friend on my track team whose knee hurt him and when he did his workouts he did them on the grass.

Answer 2

Natural grass has great cushioning properties, but because of the uneveness and patially hidden hazards strewn about, you are more likely to get injured on grass than an even surface. There are cushioned track surfaces(my preference). Most road surfaces have some give and are better than concrete. Sand can be a very stressful surface if it is loosly packed. If it's hard back, then it's good,but still wear your shoes.

Answer 3

Avoid concrete and uneven surfaces. While sure grass and other surfaces are softer, they often contain potholes you can't see until you've already stepped into it.

The best advice I have is a road surface other than concrete, but concentrate on making your footfalls silent. Much of the shock transmitted to the body can be controlled by how soft you make your footfalls.

I only realized this after hearing others clop, clop, clop by me. Then I realized that noise was really heavy hard footfalls onto the surface. so the quieter your running, the easier on your body.

Good Luck

Answer 4

Grass, dirt (on a trail), cinder, and that fake grass/turf stuff are the easiest on the shins/knees. Running on sand is difficult (if you are referring to the sand that is further away from the water). Running on the packed sand (closer to the water) is alright, but you'll want to switch directions because the ground is most likely uneven.

Answer 5

Sand is bad for the facia in the bottoms of your feet and you could wind up with a very painful, slow to heal, injury if you run in bare feet.

Answer 6

I hate concrete, Id rather run on grass, or rubber track

Answer 7

grass, dirt trails, and pine needles are really good. Sand is just hard to run in....

Answer 8

sand is bad for your ankles due to the uneven surface...asphalt,even dirt, or anything that is evn and solid except for a tread mill

Answer 9

Grass for sure.