Does running on a treadmill give you a better workout than running outdoors?
Lace up your running shoes here’s what experts have to say.
No matter where you choose to take your cardio, running has several benefits for your physical health.
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Or does running outdoors boost happiness and build mental toughness more than running on a “dreadmill”?
Here, running experts weigh in to settle the treadmill vs. outside running debate once and for all.
Here are some of the other benefits of treadmill running to consider.
And of course, running on a treadmill takes one major factor out of the equation: weather.
“It can be hard to tell if youre improving or if the external elements are just changing.”
Treadmill training, on the other hand, allows you to easily track and challenge your progress.
Outside Running
For manynew runners, jogging outside is their gateway to a regular running habit.
Here’s what else outside running has to offer.
Even better, participants who exercised outdoors were more likely to repeat their workouts.
“Running outdoors can be a great way to destress and decompress,” adds Beck.
Plus, running outdoors in a natural environment challenges your muscles to adapt to changing landscapes, says Beck.
“The most important trait of any runner is confidence,” he explains.
It depends on your goals, says Beck.
“You have to decide what your goals are and work backward from there.”
Here, Dugger and Beck share their advice for deciding between running on a treadmill vs. running outside.
to get to best prepare for an upcoming race, prioritize running outside, says Beck.
“Running on a treadmill is a safer option than running outdoors,” argues Beck.
“You dont have to worry about traffic, dangerous heat or weather, and harassment.”
So, Which Is Better: Running Outside vs. Treadmill Running?
“Sometimes, getting in the workout is the goal,” he says.
“Sometimes getting some fresh air is what you need in the moment.
Don’t limit your relationship with running by leaning on one approach.
