Start of Week 7

[Galbos]

So far I’ve done weeks 1-6 without too much trouble but have only done it on a treadmill @ 9kph. I want to start running outdoors soon now the weather is gradually turning better so was wondering if anyone has done the conversion from treadmill to road/park and how much the difference is? Just a bit of background on me, I’m a 57 year old male and this time last year I was borderline type 2 diabetic since then I have lost two stone and my sugar levels are now normal all thanks to my commitment to the gym and healthier eating.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Hello, I have never run on a treadmill but I believe running outdoors is harder on the joints so you need to watch how you land your feet and also the treadmill sets your pace where as outdoors it's up to you . Try running outside , I love it different things to see all the time and fresh air good luck 😊

[Jogunlikely Graduate]

Hi Galbos have you been running with an incline on the treadmill? 1% is considered to be similar resisistance to running outside. If you haven't then worth starting now.

Pacing will probably be the biggest issue. I started outside then moved to treadmill for a few weeks then back outside. Outside is harder only because you feel like you're not going very fast. So the best thing is to take it slowly. If your breathing starts to get laboured slow some more. Eventually you will find your pace but it can take time so stick with it.

Happy running x

[Galbos in reply to Jogunlikely]

Thanks for your reply Jogun, no I’ve just been running on the flat, but will step it up this week and maybe drop the pace a little.

[ArthurJG Graduate in reply to Jogunlikely]

Apparently the 1% gradient is important for elite runners but less so for recreational runners like ourselves.

[John_W Graduate]

I did the whole of C25K on a treadmill and then ran outdoors for the 1st time in 20 years. Yes, it felt different, but i got used to it very quickly. The *only* tricky bit is judging your pace (unless you have a GPS running watch) - cos the treadmill tells you what you're doing but you don't have that luxury outside.

As for the differences between outdoors & treadmill.... long list and not as simple as some make out.

Get out there!

Good luck

John