Grass or pavement?

[CatMo13]

Hello all just wondering which ground type do you run on and is it true grass is better? If so why are marathons on pavement and roads ? Thanks guys .

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Running on grass reduces the shock impact to your bones and the less even surface will develop, or strain, ankles to a greater degree. It also takes slightly more energy, so is a slower surface to run on than smooth, unyielding concrete or tarmac.

There is no better surface, (except that I would always rather run on grass) and indeed many marathon s and ultra races are run cross country.

[ebcroquet]

A bit of both but I always take the opportunity to run on grass when I can even though it’s a bit slower and uneven - I divert onto verges unless very wet when it’s slippery and the traffic splatters you!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

What IannodaTruffe said... having said that..out on the muddy trail this morning was... errr..interesting

[thisfishcan Graduate]

I run on pavement. I would like to run on grass. However, as it is more uneven, I worry about going over on my ankle and getting injured. Hopefully when the nights are lighter I'll be able to try it.