Break Free from the Treadmill
photo credit: Chris Makarsky
I admit it, I run on the treadmill way more often than I do running outside. Sometimes it’s a shame since I live in southern California and the weather is almost always beautiful. So why do I tend to run on the treadmill more? Personally, for several reasons:
- Random dogs - sometimes there are dogs wandering around without an owner and I am afraid of them.
- Heat - I don’t wake up early enough to run to avoid the heat and by the end of the day I am bike riding or busy.
- Safety - I do worry about traffic and overall I feel safe in my neighborhood but I still stay cautious.
- Variety - the treadmill at the gym keeps me out of the heat and if I get bored, I can use other machines.
When I do run outside, I enjoy it and many times I run with someone else like family or friends. However, that only happens every so often and mainly on a weekend. If you are like me and want to break free from the treadmill and venture out and hit the pavement, here are some tips you can try:
- Start walking first - find a nice area around your neighborhood or one of your favorite places and walk. Eventually you may find a course that you feel comfortable enough to run in.
- It’s the shoes - purchase good running shoes if you don’t have any. Running outside requires decent shoes. You’ll help prevent injury and your feet will thank you for it.
- Dress for success - invest in running clothes that wick away sweat. You will enjoy your runs more if you dress for the weather.
- Find a track - if you have access to running tracks, try those out before finding a course on the street. You’ll feel safer and still enjoy the outdoors.
- Safety first - have an ID bracelet created with your name and other emergency contact information. Also carry your cell phone to call for help in case of an emergency. Also, run against the flow of traffic and never assume cars will see you. I’ve seen cars nearly hit people crossing the street when they have the right of way so stay alert.
Running on the treadmill isn’t all that bad if you still want to do it more often than running outside. Just remember that the treadmill tends to overestimate speed and your distance so running outside will feel quite different. You can simulate street running on a treadmill by increasing the incline.
Do you run outdoors a lot? What are your tips for people like me who want to break free from the treadmill for awhile? Everyone feel free to comment!
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Comments
Interesting article. I prefer to run on the treadmill because of safety reason. Although I really dream to run outdoors.
I usually walk outdoors in the evening with my husband. Though it is a fairly safe neighborhood. When I am walking I give drivers a chance to see me before crossing the street. Also too many driveways.
There is just nothing like running outside! The sun, the breeze and fresh air.. plus you get a better workout when outside because you are using stabilizer muscles that you wouldn’t use on a treadmill because of the uneven ground and constant surroundings.
I always feel at ease after a great run!
I usually run and walk outside; however, lately I have been thinking about buying a treadmill. I live in a hot and humid state so it is not always pleasant to be outdoors.
Both have their good sides and bad sides. Running outside definitely requires the right surface. Too much concrete and pavement will wear you down.
Nice post. I have a same opinion. i also don’t like Treadmill because i find it very boring. It is better to jog on a jogging track in fresh air.
I like the post. Great work