Treadmill??????

just wondering if you get the same results running on a treadmill instead of

on the road - going the gym this week and was going to start training on the

treadmill ......Any suggestions??????

[sfb350 Graduate]

I did my first few weeks on the treadmill but I've gradually mixed in some outdoor runs. I like the mixture. Outdoor running is more challenging in many ways but also more interesting. When I run outside, I don't worry about speed - there are plenty of variations in terrain and inclines to concentrate on. When I'm on the treadmill, it's easy to monitor speed, so I try to increase the speed for intervals, play around with the incline etc If you just run on the flat on the treadmill (which I did for a few weeks) it won't really prepare you for outdoor running unless you live somewhere completely flat. If you set the treadmill on one of the "hilly" programs it will do more for you - but don't worry if you don't feel ready for that, you can build up over time.

[CaroleC Graduate]

A 1% incline is supposed to mimic outdoors.

CaroleC

[Alaiyo Graduate]

Good for you for doing the program, whether indoors on a treadmill, or out in the wild. While running outside is more varied and might be more challenging, there is absolutely nothing wrong with using a treadmill and getting the benefits of the program without yucky weather.

[RichardHill Graduate]

There's nothing wrong with using a treadmill but it can be less intensive than running outside. I did C25K twice - once on a treadmill and once outside - and found that I much prefer running outside because you have to adapt to your surroundings (and the weather!). I could let the treadmill control my speed whereas outside my speed was more under my control, I could slow down or speed up as I wished.

If you plan to take part in a 5k, then you will need to prepare for it by running outside; the treadmill can't simulate sudden inclines or the wind coming straight at you!

Keep it up!

[Chicken6 Graduate]

I completed c25k outside and have since joined a gym and I now use the treadmill which I really like, keeps me out of this horrible windy weather. I don't think it really matters what method you use, it's what's best and works for you. There are lots of programmes on the treadmill to use or the gym instructors can put one together for you. Have fun

[BTX4 Graduate]

I have poorly knees and haven't been able to run for a couple of weeks.

During my visit to the gym yesterday I just couldn't resist having a tiny little run, 1 min then 3 mins walking then 3mins running. I was advised to put the treadmill on a very slight decline for the sake of my knees.

So far so good and knees seem ok.

The one thing I did find though that compared with running outside (I did all C25K outside) it was so boring! Even the 3 mins seemed eternity and I got so hot.

For me I think it will have to be a mix. Treadmill for the sake of my knees and outside for fun.

[Greg_M Graduate]

Its not the same experience for sure but no reason the results shouldn't be as good as far as I can see. Doing it is what's important.

I have always run outside and can't imagine any other way but there are as many who think the opposite

Do whichever works for you and keeps you going, you might feel like mixing it up later. Its all good.

[Somerset_boy]

I have run on treadmill as I travel a lot. I found that it help me pace myself as you can set speed. I did get shin splints to begin with but found having set incline to 1 degree help along with getting stronger. Just finished wk3 r3 all on treadmill. Good luck

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thanks folks for all your comments - will update with my progress

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I found that running on the treadmill was easier than running outside. Having said that, running outside is a lot more enjoyable and I found that my cardio fitness improved a lot quicker.