Treadmill Running
Many enjoy treadmills for the pure and simply fact that
they are safe and readily available anytime. With crime
soaring in many areas, the treadmill is one of the only viable
options for many that fear for their safety while trying to
achieve a workout. Another great benefit to a treadmill is
that the weather will not determine if you will be able to run
or not each day. The weather doesn't just refer to cold or wet
but also if you suffer from allergies or have super hot
weather that may cause problems with overheating.
Treadmills also offer much more joint protection than road
running. Besides the fact that users are running on a piece of
MDF or some other shock absorbing material, many now offer
Orthopedic belts that are specifically designed to reduce
shock for those with knee, ankle, or hip problems.
Many beginners also prefer the pace that a treadmill will
allow users to attain that they may have a harder time finding
on their own. The speed and pace are easily controlled and
changed at any time so beginners may monitor their progress,
whereas road running is nowhere near as precise a science for
those not so aware of their stats.
Road Running
Roadies are a little harder to convince. Many road runners
are usually hardcore and do not mind the weather or the crime
possibility. Road runners generally find that treadmills are
to confining and boring. With a treadmill the runner is not
moving your body forward, thus you are moving your arms and
legs with no resistance. Many say that for this reason
treadmills are easier because you are not exerting the energy
it takes to propel your body forward.
Outside you are also dealing with the wind friction that
can make going forward harder.
Road running is a mental relief to many making their
workouts much more enjoyable, thus making to more of a fun
activity than a necessary evil that must be completed. Some
even think that they run a better time while outside than on a
treadmill, which is great motivation for anyone!
Conclusion
Weather you choose to use a treadmill or go the much
cheaper route (free!), running/walking is the fastest and
easiest way to fitness and weight loss. Both methods are sound
and will help anyone achieve overall fitness.
