Running - Easier on treadmill or on road

m.j.w

Ive been running a good bit on the treadmill aswell as on the road. Anyone I talk to says it is far easier to run on a treadmill but I actually find it the oppisite. I have run 10k under 45 mins a good few times on the road but cant get under 47 on the treadmill. Just looking to get the general consensus on this one.

dacookie

So many things you can do on a treadmill to make it so much easyier even subconsciously.Running outside is definitely better for you and harder

yizorselves

Much prefer the road/grass. Treadmills I find too restricting. Always in the back of your mind not to move too much sideways or to the end of it. It doesnt feel like proper running. Outside in the fresh air is the way to go

Canis Lupus

Treadmills are easier. The machine is doing half the job for you. If you find your time on the road is quicker you're either measuring that distance incorrectly or the treadmill is off.

metamorphosis

Yeah, like said, the treddie propels you forward. Outdoors is harder, but much more rewarding in many ways imho

shootermacg

I find running on the threaddie harder, it's not cold enough, the noise is a pain and having all the readouts is way too much to look at, like watching a kettle boil.
Running outside, you get a nice breeze to keep you cool, no noise and nothing to do but run the distance, I use the nike+ with an ipod, even had tiger woods congratulating me on a personal best!

The Davestator

To make treadmill running translate to outdoor running you need to use an incline of 1-2% on the treadmill.

marathonic

I done a half marathon and a marathon a few years ago but fell out of the fitness regime until last October. Previously, most of my running was on the road but I've been doing quite a bit on the threadmill now.

My latest run was 45 minutes at 11kph on level 10 (which is a varying incline from 1.5 to 7.8). I'd imagine that, when I get out to the road, it should be easier than that but will be interesting when I find out.

Cole

I can't really compare either in terms of performance, but I just can't get used to the treadmill.....the boredom.

Even if it's p1ssing rain, I'd still prefer to get outside (road or off-road trails) and I think it's definitely more challenging.

rainbow kirby

The hardest part about treadmills for me is resisting the urge to get off the damn thing. Can't stand them, but love running outside.

Loopie

Personally I can't handle the boredom of the treadmill. I just keep looking at the time, the distance, and the treadmills in my gym are facing mirrors and hate looking at myself bouncing about!...nah hate it! Outside wins with me!

Chet Zar

Not a huge fan of running but I wouldn't even call using a treadmill running...it's outside in the fresh air or nothing!

Ki ki

Physically, the treadmill is easier.

Mentally, there's nothing like being in the great outdoors.