Running on a treadmill or outdoors?

We are sure most of you have thought about this: which might be healthier or more effective. And here is what the research says. Studies so far have shown that more energy is used when running outdoors, precisely because, due to the increased resistance that is always stronger outside an enclosed space, runners who run outdoors use more energy. Those who run on a treadmill cannot run at full speed, because the pace is dictated not by the runner but by the machine, while the situation outdoors is different.

When you run outdoors, you decide when to speed up and when to slow down. Running in a natural environment and in fresh air has a positive effect; however, for people who have health problems and want to train in order to solve them, it is preferable to use treadmills. Being surrounded by people will awaken a sense of security and consistency in the fight against illness, and the possibilities treadmills offer, as opposed to the unchangeable conditions outdoors, will be more favourable for the runner. On a treadmill you can change the incline or make interval changes of speed and pace at your own discretion at any moment.

All things considered, running outdoors is considerably better than running on a treadmill. Outdoors you dictate the pace, but you encounter different surfaces and uneven terrain, which very much affects the training and the final result; despite that, if you have the choice, it is better to always run outdoors. As with other activities, running has its good and bad sides. However, what you should know is that the positive effects of running are many times greater, while the negative effects can most often be attributed to mistakes in the way it is done.

When it comes to injuries, both methods of running can lead to injuries, which mostly come down to inflammation of muscles and tendons, strains, sprained joints, knee pain, skin irritation, blisters on the soles and nail problems caused by unsuitable footwear. A large number of the negative effects of running can be prevented by choosing suitable shoes and running routes, proper stretching and warming up, an appropriate running pace, a good training schedule and appropriate nutrition and hydration.

Don’t let this discourage you from registering for the 7th Subotica Half Marathon. Come on 25 August and let’s run through Subotica’s history together, socialise, push our own limits and contribute to a sporting event that gathers more and more participants year after year!