Millions of people love to run and walk. However, is running or walking on a treadmill or outside better? This has led to many debates both amongst friends and researchers, and many share their opinions on one over the other. Let’s dig into this question by first examining the pros and cons of each.
The Pros And Cons Of Treadmills
One of the biggest advantages of a treadmill is that it’s accessible anytime. Rain or shine, night or day, the treadmill is there for you to pound out a few miles (or kilometers for almost everyone else outside the US). In fact, you can challenge yourself with various programs built into most treadmills by varying the speed and incline, or in some cases, depending on the model, walk or run virtually somewhere on the planet you may never physically visit.
Besides the flexibility of exercising on your schedule, a treadmill can help you recover from injury. It provides a stable, soft surface that will absorb some shock on your joints and reduce your risk of injury from uneven ground or slippery roads and sidewalks. In fact, a treadmill may help you recover from injury more quickly than walking or running outside.
There are certainly some drawbacks to treadmill workouts. Instead of being outside, you’re stuck in one place, likely in a room, basement, or gym. Unfortunately, you may become bored. There is a reason some people call it the dreadmill. However, there are ways you can make treadmill workouts more fun.
Another drawback of treadmills is that they’re not free. In other words, you’ll have to buy one or join a gym, which usually has a monthly membership fee.
The Pros And Cons Of Outside
Whether you exercise outside or on the treadmill, either option will increase your fitness level and provide other benefits. However, one study suggests that spending 30 minutes a week outdoors could reduce depression and high blood pressure.
Outdoor exercise can help activate other muscles due to changing elevation, dodging hazards, or going around other environmental barriers. Furthermore, it may help build stronger bones because you’re on harder surfaces. Exercising outside instead of on the treadmill provides a change in scenery, which can help keep you mentally stimulated. It’s also free except for the cost of proper footwear.
While outdoor activities are ideal in comfortable temperatures, cold or heat can increase your risks of dehydration and injury. Additionally, exercising at night can be dangerous. Although it seems convenient that the outside is there when you’re ready, the weather may not be ideal.
Is the Treadmill or Outside Better?
If you’re trying to find the optimal workout to increase your fitness, both will improve your cardiovascular health. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer. In fact, one study shows conflicting findings on whether one is better than another. However, one theory is that exercising outside is slightly more challenging since treadmills make it easier to stay in motion. Yet, that hasn’t been proven.
Research shows that walking and running do not cause knee or joint damage, regardless of your preferred method. It comes down to which is better for your personal preferences, goals, and circumstances.
- Which option fits better into your schedule? A treadmill may make it easier to get your workouts in.
- Does your budget allow for a gym membership or purchasing a treadmill? Outside is free.
- Do you enjoy a variety of scenery or terrain? Although some treadmills have programs to simulate different locations, nothing beats being outside to experience it.
- Are you recovering from an injury? A treadmill allows you to control your speed and incline while exercising on a surface that can be easier on your joints.
- Are you looking to burn more calories? Outside may have a slight edge, but both are good for burning calories.
If you can’t decide, you can alternate between them to get the best of both worlds. However, it ultimately comes down to choosing the most enjoyable option to help you stay consistent.
The Takeaway
Walking or running on a treadmill or outside both have pros and cons. Either option will improve your health and well-being. Therefore, you should choose the option that best fits your situation and the one you’ll enjoy. This will increase your chances of forming a habit. As a result, you’ll reap the benefits of regular exercise, which will help maintain your quality of life as you age.
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Disclaimer: No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
