Does running on the treadmill have the same affect as running outside?

Question

I've been using a treadmill to run for the past few months, but I've been having these urges to run outside, but I don't live in a very safe neighborhood. So I've just been curious if running on the treadmill has the same affect as other running, like through the neighborhood.

Anyone know?

Answer 1

Most people don't think of the treadmill as running and therein lies the their reason for wanting to run outside.. psychologically the runner is limited to the treadmill.. and as a result is basically held captive by the limitation.. it is human nature to want to be free.. running on a treadmill is a workout.. running outside is a free wheeling excercise that allows you to speed up and slow down as you wish.. a treadmill has to be controlled to the pace.. it becomes work.. now..what to do to make it more fun.. think of the treadmill as a challenge.. set it up to be as fun as you can make it.. different speeds etc.. your mind will re-act positively to a challenge.. it will reject a druggery.. beat the machine... and you will beat the boredom.. good luck

Answer 2

Hey there. I have never been much of a runner except recently I'm training for a job in law enforcement so I have been running my tail off for the last couple months. I first ran on the treadmill everyday and I was getting faster and stronger and feeling pretty confident. Then people started telling me that I need to run outside because it's way different. The first time I tried my mile outside, I nearly died lol. I pretty much stick to just running outside now and I'm up to 3 miles now. I'm certainly not a professional but I noticed that the treadmill is great for my heart and warming up before I start my workout but for the actual benefit of running I stick to running outside. Good luck with your tennis =D

Answer 3

I'm pretty sure running is running however you do it.

I think you're urges comes from the fact that running inside can be boring because you have more to see and the scenery actually changes. Also the fresh air and outdoors can be a good stress reliever imho.

If you're neighborhood is dangerous I suggest that you get a running buddy from your pool of friends or coworkers who also like running. Ask around, I think you'll be surprised about how many runners their are out there.

Answer 4

no because the terrian is different. when you run outside you run uphill, downhill and over small bumps that you dont really see, just like running in the grass isnt the same as running on cement because they have different terrian. if you have a really fancy treadmill that can imitate different terrian then that might be the same, but running outside is usually a little more effective. either way, there both great to do so no matter what they'll both make you healthier.

Answer 5

Breathing conditions have the difference. Go to places where people do their running. A few cents for fare would not hurt if it really that mean to you to follow the urges once in a while or frequently as you chose.

Answer 6

Running is running, how about driving to a safe spot once a week and enjoy the great outdoors?...:)

Answer 7

in terms of what is more effective, i dont think there is a difference, but there is nothing better than just going outside on a beautiful day and getting exercise outdoors

Answer 8

It is the same physically but the fresh air and just the being outdoors no matter where you are is much more enjoyable.

Answer 9

No, running on a treadmill takes way less energy than actual running.

http://www.coolrunning.com.au/forums/index.php?showtopic=16414&pid=272570&st=0&#entry272570

Answer 10

no, running is better.