Is there a difference between running on the road and the treadmill?

[angelmummy]

... I'm half way through week 4 and have done it all outside (I live in the middle of nowhere with no hills!)... and will likely complete it all this way.... but just curious.

[lm51 Graduate]

Yes - I find I can run for longer on a treadmill although it's much more tedious!

[H123 Graduate]

psychologically I think I have to propell myself more outside-and just lift my legs up quickly if on a tredmill.Please dont think that means I found it easy on a treadmill, but just different. But no hills here and I must look pretty scary to teenagers because I havent heard any of the silly comments (either that or my music is too loud!). Running outside for C25K, but have always used gym before. I think whatever you are comfortable with is best, because then you do it!

[deadasadodo Graduate]

Hiya

I did it all outside, still do (steady!), I either pound round the streets or round the park, both on tarmac- I ran on grass the other day and found that most strange!

Davina

[Pixel Graduate]

I've done all my running outside (so far) on a mixture of tarmac and grass, but I have used a treadmill briefly before I started. Honestly, I find being outside a bit 'harder' as there's landscape changes (mainly hills), but it's not as tedious. Also, being outside forces you to use your arms, as oppose to a treadmill where you can hang onto the front of it whilst running.

I can't see myself going back to a treadmill, but I'd imagine without any hills (and an even surface) a treadmill and outside would similar.

[happierswimming Graduate]

I wouldn't feel happy running on pavement at my age (61) because the treadmill absorbs impact and saves the wear and tear on my knees and other joints so I use a treadmill. I don't hold on! Treadmills are supposed to be easier because you don't have to propel your body forward, but I have been out for a grass run and I don't think that was easier than the treadmill. I don't have any strength left for feeling bored or any other emotion than fatigue wherever I run!

[Nickyrunning Graduate]

Boredom is the issue on a treadmill I find