Week 7 Run 1

[Rach39Wor]

I have been doing couch to 5k on the treadmill. Would I find it more beneficial to run outside.

[MichaelH070862 Graduate]

it is entirely up to you a few members have done/are doing the programme on the treadmill. i started outside straight away as on the occasions when I have been on a treadmill I couldn't find a rhythm that I liked but now the good weather is coming it might be worth making that transition to running outside.

[Madge50 Graduate]

Now that's a very personal thing, I prefer running outside, have done right from the begining, I love being outside, and would always recommend it over a treadmill, the different (and challenging) terrain you run on, people you meet, breathing fresh air. There is a school of thought that running on mixed terrain builds more strength in your feet and legs, especially adapting on almost every stride. I do believe my feet and ankles are much stronger than they used to be.

Equally treadmill running has its benefits, all 'professionals' use them etc.,

So, it's down to personal choice and your own circumstances, there's always the safety aspect to consider, especially if you're a lone runner.

I'm sure someone here will be along with more techy and scientific stuff, but for me, it's simple, I just enjoy being outside more, if I had to, I would use a dreadmill (I have got one.....it's a bit dusty right now...😄)

Happy running, however you do it!

Mx

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

They are just different

I like Madge50 just love the great outdoors..thing is.. give it a go and take it very slow and steady..just because you are outside

Tree roots are a terrible thing

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Its all running, do whatever you prefer. Maybe give outdoors a try and see how you feel about it👍🏼

[misswobble Graduate]

Yes 😃🏃‍♀️

[Hidden]

I am a fan of running outdoors but I am lucky to live close to lovely countryside, in a safe place and the summer is (almost) here. I take the dog and this makes him happy too. So why not give it a go and see how you get on. I haven't seen anybody say "I used to run outdoors but I much prefer the treadmill". Some people do say its slower though (that's my excuse anyway!)

[nhs2015 Graduate]

I read somewhere about running on a treadmill does not use one specific muscle because the thingy is moving. I forgot what it is but will see if I can find it.

[nhs2015 Graduate]

Ah, it is Hamstrings, Because the belt moves.

Quote : "Treadmill vs Outside"

"In short, it doesn't matter"

"The treadmill is more forgiving on your foot strike, but because the belt moves for you, you aren't using your hamstrings, Dr Boutagy said"

"To make up for that, plus match any head-on winds you'd face outside that make your run more challenging, put the treadmill incline at a 1per cent"

I don't know if it is true but it is in the media.

[Rach39Wor]

Thanks all - i ran for 25 minutes non stop for the first time in my life and i am 49. I really struggle with hayfever so i think will stay on the treadmill for now as going outside is not good ta the moment. May progress out in the open in the Autumn as there are some great places to run here.

[Carolinemcd Graduate]

I graduated the program on a treadmill. I was not interested in running outside because of my weight and I fall over easily. I also did it over winter and I know that I would have come up with every excuse in the book not to go out in the cold and wet. I live in a village that has lovely footpaths but in the dark are impossible to navigate. Also no pavements so running in the dark is a no no. Anyway I bought a treadmill, started walking then moved on to running and C25K.

No that it's warmer and lighter later I have moved outside. It's not been long so I don't have too much tell you except it's been tough and I've started at the beginning doing one run of each week just to get used to the terrain. Did I mention I fall over easily *I wish there was a rolling eyes emoji for here*

They are very different, so if you can I would give it a try just to see how it feels, even if it's just one of your 3 runs each week.