Treadmill or Outside???Just completed W2 R2 and that is the first run that I have done on the treadmill, all others have been outside.

[Rebeccalou85]

I found it considerably easier on the treadmill. Do you think this is just because the programme is working or is it easier because I was on the treadmill?? The main difference I know of is I struggle to keep a constant speed running outside, I often run too fast and walk too slow, on the treadmill I had number 5 for walking and number 8 for jogging so I know I was being more consistent with the speeds.

Thanks in advance.

[stayinbed Graduate]

I'm no expert but I used to run on a treadmill, and comparing the 2, I don't think a treadmill is anything like as good as running outside. Each to their own though. If you felt happy on the treadmill, stick with it. At least you won't get wet!!

[happierswimming Graduate]

using a treadmill or running outside won't make any difference to your overall fitness or stamina, so go for whatever is best for you. I use a treadmill because it's kinder on my joints nowadays (I'm 61 and the treadmill absorbs impact better than pavements) but I do run outside in the park when the ground is soft after rain. It takes time to adjust your speed running outside because you don't have the numbers in front of you in the way you do on a treadmill but once you reach the 25k+ podcasts when you have graduated, you will find you run to a beat and then the numbers displayed are less important. Try to use both the treadmill and outside to allow different muscles to develop

[Lu25k]

It's not just you--it is easier on the treadmill. I don't know why; I agree with happierswimming that overall you're probably just as fit from working out on a treadmill, but it seems as though outdoor running requires something more from your body that treadmill work just doesn't do.

I've done almost the whole program on a treadmill (I'm in Week 7), and since I realized how much harder it was for me to run outdoors, I've been making an effort to do it to try and catch up. I should probably go back a little and retrain myself outside, but instead I'm struggling through this week's runs. Sometimes I even have to stop for and walk quickly. My body never felt this stressed on a treadmill, and I do make a point of running really slowly outside.

[bufkiboo]

when running on a treadmill you should set the incline between 1.5 and 2 which gives the equivalent of running outside.

[Daftpaddy]

I have just started the program and am at w2r2. Although I am using a treadmill I'm now setting it at incline level2 for the whole run/walk, and believe me you can feel the difference..