Running machine??

[Julesnic]

I’m just starting my C25k journey and am wondering if it’s just as effective using a running machine? Because I’ll make every excuse to get out of it if it’s raining but I can’t if I use a running machine.. thoughts?

[Blackberrypie Graduate]

I think I'd find it much less appealing on a treadmill - one of the things that keeps me going is looking around me as I run and enjoying discovering new places and routes. I have planned some longer routes that I'm looking forward to being able to explore when I'm ready to take on longer distances, which helps to motivate me.

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Hi, welcome to the program and the forum !

Well done for starting 😁👍

I believe there are many who do and have done this program on a running machine , so it is certainly acceptable,

As for effectiveness, possibly not as you don't have the resistance of a static surface , but of course you asked for thoughts and these are just mine 😁

Many years ago (23 to be precise, when I was a mere 40 year old !) I gave up smoking and joined a gym , I used to be able to run an hour on a treadmill , I then ventured out onto the road , I only did it once , it nearly killed me , and I don't mean the traffic haha.

So 23 years later I started this C25K, only ever used the road , even in the rain ! In fact , it's very refreshing 😬

I have certainly got used to road running now by believing in and following the program .

However you decide to do it , good luck and most of all , enjoy the journey 🙂👍🏃

[Yorki_Girl Graduate]

I hate treadmills, would rather be outdoors even in the rain but I’m sure they have their place.

Why not try both ... run outside when it’s dry and on treadmill if it rains. Then decide where you are most enjoying the run and stick with that?

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Useful in snowy or icy conditions and coming back after injury; Indeed some of our forum friends have to use them as their locations are too dangerous or too wet ( monsoons) or too hot. They have done wonderfully on them...

but..if you are able to access the great outdoors do it

It is fantastic... every changing seasons, all weathers, rain,wind, hail... yes, but also fresh Spring mornings, green and gold topped with sunshine... The crisp days of Autumn with every colour on Nature's palette.. and a morning in Winter with gin-clear skies, a nip in the air and the thought of a wonderful hot shower after your run...

Go on.... you know you want to ...

PS

Rain... it is just wet... I got soaked yesterday....loved it

[Chime7875 Graduate]

I do mine on a treadmill. Works ok for me. Not sure how I’ll fare when I hit the pavement. Goodluck whatever way you choose

[Couchphoenix Graduate]

Stick with outdoors Julesnic, much better than plodding away on a treadmill, outdoors you get more of a sense of the distance you’ve covered, rather than looking at a digital display 👍

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your decision.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Running is freedom and appreciation of the beautiful natural environment......for me.

Some like to slog away on a machine and they obviously have higher boredom thresholds than me.

The dreadmill will build your stamina and leg strength but may not wholly prepare you for outdoors running, although the transition normally doesn't take long.

Enjoy your journey.