Inside or out...

[paulmou]

I’ve managed to get to week 5, part 2 is tomorrow. I was wondering where everyone runs. I’ve done everything run at the gym. I’m a bit worried I will stop too easily if I run outdoors. What does everyone find easier?

[Razouski]

I did the first few weeks of C25K on the treadmill at the gym and didn’t think I could run outside, but after being dragged out by my daughter I couldn’t believe how much more enjoyable it was. I love the change of scenery and seeing the seasons change and develop. It also feels less of a chore and much more of a fun activity.

It’s definitely worth trying as you can find lovely places to run. 😀

[Sortyourlife in reply to Razouski]

Yeah I’ve felt like this too! I used to be too self conscious to run in the gym let alone on the road. I started off trying to start running around a year ago, and I tried to have some sort of structure but I never did it regularly.

I started C25K this week, just finished week 1. Because of the weather and how light it is first thing I’ve done all 3 outside and it’s been great. I’ve enjoyed doing them outside so far, although depending on the time and weather of other runs I don’t mind doing them on the treadmill either

I think I’m also faster on my own than on the treadmill? Not that it matters. But yeah, very happy with how my first week has gone

[Razouski in reply to Sortyourlife]

You may be surprised at what weather you can run in. I thought I would hate running outside in winter but actually loved the cold crops mornings - just have to be careful when it’s icy. Rain can be a problem but sometimes is fun, jumpy in puddles etc, but I hate it when the wind is against me.

But there’s always the option of the treadmill if you don’t mind it.

[Sortyourlife in reply to Razouski]

Yeah I’m actually quite looking forward to running in the winter, warming up my body a bit aha!

I can imagine the wind being a pain though.

[Razouski in reply to Sortyourlife]

Also once your runs get longer and cover a greater distance you may find being outside much more interesting. I'm running 10K plus most of the time and would get really bored if I was on the treadmill for over an hour I think.

[Fabulous450 Graduate]

I started off at the gym and then my car broke down very unexpectedly and getting to the gym without it would be quite a feat. I contemplated having to start again when the car is back on the Rd, as the last place I wanted to be running was outdoors where others could see me! It wasn’t about the condition of the pavement for me. 😳

However, that car breaking down has been a blessing in a very good disguise. I had to make a choice, but stopping was not one of them! I decided that I was doing W1R2 no matter what and I set out running beside the rush hour traffic and facing that fear and completing that run was the best feeling ever!

I now have 3 places to run! The road, a lovely little park close to my house (that I didn’t think about that fateful day) and the gym. I’ve been out in the rain too and I love it. I’ve not been out in the heat yet, which I understand is another challenge, but there aren’t many left, I have had so many obstacles in 2 weeks, but I got out there! I’m not sure running at the gym will ever be the same now, but hey, I have a variety of choices. I’ve noticed that I’m looking out for places where I can run outdoors when I’m working away too! Without contemplating any embarrassment. Besides, one gym membership is enough. Running outdoors is free and that’s exactly how it makes me feel. 😂

I’m at W2R3 next, but from “I’m not a runner” to where I am now, I’m absolutely thrilled already.

[Tjar]

In the gym for now. I need a controlled environment when it comes to temperature (too hot out), speed (trying to learn about pacing) and can’t do the ‘hills’ outside in my city, yet!

Also, getting back from years of injuries like severely sprained ankles, one even during warm up for a run, I don’t want to find myself in the middle of nowhere, looking for a bus stop to crawl to. 😂

[Gridlet Graduate]

I find running outside is easier than the treadmill. I’m lucky to live near the seafront so running along the prom is a joy to me. I don’t worry about other people any more, nobody cares what you look like and it’s always nice to see another runner and give them a wave

[QueenTea Graduate]

I like running outside - hate the treadmill as I find it so boring. I have a lovely park 5 mins away & go early 5.45. Like being outside when it’s less busy & can hear the birds. Try both & see what suits you. Always good to mix things up.

[Sarakc Graduate]

Outside for me! I’m lucky to live by the coast and there are some beautiful places to run and lots of variety! I love running in the woods the best! I started the programme last autumn and have been running through the seasons! As long as you have the appropriate clothing it’s fine! I’m enjoying the light evenings now! 😀🏃‍♀️

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Definitely outside for me. I’m lucky enough to be able to go urban, run down by the river, go off in to the country, go to several local parks, or be able to run by the coast. In the warmth though, that’s a late night run, sat after 8 at least.

Not stopping is a mental battle. Don’t let the demons win!

[GoogleMe Graduate]

I think there is so much evidence of the benefits of being outside in nature (Vitamin D, mental health) that if you have anywhere half way pleasant to run outdoors, that's the healthiest option.

However, if you live outside the UK (so more extreme temperatures), if your outdoor environment is unsafe (pollution, crime) and you can't easily get yourself to a better one, or for some who have to use a treadmill at home because of caring responsibilities, it is great there are other options.

[Karukerajo]

I did week 1 and 2 at the gym and since week 3 I run outside and find it much better. You should try outside and then decide what's best for you.

[Rumour Graduate]

Didn't even think of the Gym. We drive 8 minutes to our local country park and run there. Early morning at about 6:20 and the wildlife is fantastic. Sets us up for the day and it is nice and cool. Did some Gym work back in 2004 and hated all the showoffs and the regimented regime. Outside I am as free as a bird, to run at my pace and socialise with other runners, even if it is just to say Hi.

[Big_maz]

I started c25k with my dog because I wasn’t confident to run on my own but things are changing and runs are. getting a bit too long for her but I have found a new confidence I didn’t have before thanks to c25k

[Lylagrace Graduate]

Hello, I’ve only run outdoors. Choose a different direction each session. I will be w5r2 tomorrow. Decided to move onto roads, started off using farm tracks, but decided roads level, although not that flat in 3 directions out of the village.

[cheryl_couch_tatty Graduate]

I have stuck to the treadmill and I am on W9. I am planning on going outside but I have a bit of a mental block on it, I think I will need to be forced outside. I will probably enjoy it as there is not much to look at on the treadmill really

[Soozy16 Graduate]

I’m lucky to live by the river so as well as it being free there’s no competition! I do mix it up as I’m on week 8 now. The weather plays a part in my choices too! It’s a great time of year to start running outside. If it’s too hot run early morning or late evening! 😀

[helen0794 Graduate]

Hi...I finished week 5 last week & ran nearly all on the treadmill (the gym is so close & easy for me) I find the pace setting helps me. I did feel it wasn’t ‘real running’ though, so have run week 6, 1 & 2 outside. I definitely found it more difficult outside but felt so much better after! There are some nice places around, so I have no excuse- just the pace I need help with. Good luck - anywhere’s better than not at all!!

[spscollins]

I prefer outdoors

[Mezkate]

I find it better running outside, first thing in the morning. More to see to distract me, and fresh air.

[paulmou]

Thank you everyone, I’m going to try it this morning and see how I go before I get to the 20 minute run this weekend!

[mfamilias Graduate]

I hope you enjoy it I love running outside and it's the only choice I have anyway - no gym here in the vineyards, and I got thrown off the first one I tried so Im not trying again. Getting out to see something different and get some fresh air is liberating and sometimes reminds me of that thrill I got from running around when I was little (ok, mainly when I'm running down a hill).

[tuffybug Graduate]

I run from home as has got a circuit I can do, and tweak it depending if the time needs it. I also go to the local park where the Park Run is done as I know the route and can see how far, or how much further I need to get! Outside is lovely at this time of year. Treadmill running is a different run altogether, and gym environments can be so competitive. As long as you can cope with faster runners overtaking you when outside, and you are overtaking the walkers, you know you will be ok!

[Agaig Graduate]

I've done all my runs outdoors cos I can't afford to join a gym. It's good gets you out in the real world with real terrain, wind, people and occasional rain

[Caro71]

Outdoors. Quiet lanes so no one sees as I build confidence. However tonight I was passed by cars and it was lovely. Smiling people. One gentleman said I was doing well and brave with the storm that surrounded us but was not raining. Just puddle dodging.

[Gilly0410 Graduate]

I never even contemplated anything but outdoors. I love being in the fresh air personally I think people probably take less notice of you.

[paulmou]

So I did it, really slow running, but I didn’t stop as much as I wanted to. It’s not the flattest path, along the river, and my calves were hurting a lot but I’m glad I did it. On to the 20 minute effort!