There are runners who prefer the consistent and predictable conditions of running on a treadmill – and those that see the advantages of being outdoors and running in the fresh air and on a variety of different routes.
We asked UKA running coach Angela MacAusland, of Run Coach Angela, to outline the many pros and cons of treadmill running versus road running.
Pros of treadmill running
All weathers
Whatever the weather, from extreme heat to black ice to storms, runners can continue to train on a treadmill because the conditions remain the same and are predictable indoors.
All day and night
You can run any time of the day or night on a treadmill, especially if you have your own running machine at home. This is particularly useful in the winter and also if you require flexibility in your work and home life.
Safe indoors
A treadmill offers a safe environment if you are concerned about running solo outdoors. This might be especially true for female runners who may feel vulnerable when running alone.
Pace setting
Treadmill running makes it easier to set a regular pace. This is because the running environment is always the same and the machine can be set to give exactly the same speed and gradient each time.
Train easier
You can make use of built in training sessions, such as intervals, when running on a treadmill.
Joint benefits
Treadmill running can provide some cushioning for your joints when compared to pounding the pavements.
Beginner friendly
It can be easier for for novice runners to get started with a walk/run/walk programme when utilising a treadmill indoors.
Cons of treadmill running
Far from reality
Treadmill running doesn’t replicate different running surfaces – for example, trails – and the inclines aren’t like 'real life' hills. Nor can you experience weather conditions such as a head wind when running on a treadmill.
Too even
Foot placement is always in the same place on a treadmill, so this means you do not experience the benefits of running on trails and uneven surfaces
Uses fewer muscles
Runners will use fewer muscles in their legs when running on a treadmill because the belt is always moving, so you don’t need to propel yourself forward as much.
Are you bored yet?
Treadmill running can be boring, even if you have a TV, screen or music as a diversion.
Posing a problem
Depending on where the front of the treadmill is (the screen), it can cause your upper body posture to tip forwards unnaturally.
Can be costly
You have to buy a treadmill or pay a gym subscription to use one – and if you own a treadmill there are the costs of electricity and maintenance, too.
Space issues
You’ll need the space to keep a treadmill at home – and if its in a room you don’t use, such as a garage, you might be less motivated to use it.
What about the downs?
Some treadmills don’t offer the option of downhill running, which means you do not gain the experience, nor benefit physically, from learning to effectively run downhill.
Pros of road running
Natural advantages
One of the main benefits of running outdoors is the fresh air and being surrounded by nature. There are many studies – see seven benefits of the great outdoors – that show the mental health advantages of exercising outdoors in a natural environment.
Anytime, anywhere
Road running is accessible and flexible. You can run outdoors on your own, with a friend or with a group.
Run with friends
Road running can be very sociable because you can run with other people, whether friends or as part of a club.
Lots of variety
You have the choice of road, trail, flat, hills, fields, mountains, river paths and a mix of all of these – and every run can be different.
Good experience
Experiencing road running in all weathers can help you prepare for any races coming up. For example, how you will cope physically and mentally, what you need to wear and how the weather affects your training.
It's more natural
Your stride length naturally changes when the terrain / incline changes, which means you will have a more natural running rhythm when running outdoors.
A feel for it
Road running encourages your to run by “feel” or by Rate of Perceived Exertion, which can differ from day to day, depending on the weather, terrain etc
Good for balance
A variety of different running surfaces will help with your proprioception.
Health benefits
You get a daily dose of Vitamin D when running outdoors.
Cheap and easy
Road running is free to do, once you have bought your running footwear and clothes.
Cons of road running
Needs different clothing
When running outdoors, you are open to the elements – and have to dress accordingly to cope with the weather conditions.
Weather danger
Black ice, storms, lightning, high winds etc will prevent you from running safely outdoors – and if you don’t have access to a treadmill, you can’t run.
Traffic hazards
Road runners need to be aware of traffic at all times, especially if running in towns and cities. Motorised vehicles can pose a safety hazard if you are not aware of where you are running and what is around you.
Poor view
You need to remember to be safe and be seen at night or in poor light conditions.
Safety concerns
Some road runners may feel unsafe when running solo, so you will need to make sure you have a friend to run with.
Not so easy
Outdoor running can seem harder than treadmill running, especially if you don’t know how to pace yourself.
In conclusion, when assessing treadmill running versus road running it's fair to say there are many pros and cons for each type of running. Many runners will choose to do a mix of both indoors and outdoors running and that is probably the best way to take advantage of the benefits of each.
- Best trail running shoes: footwear for speed and stability on tough terrain
