Treadmill v. Elliptical v. Running outside

Brocksterdanza

It's that time of the year that the weather is changing and the opportunity of going outside is there. The question i have is do you foresee a huge difference in benefit to one or the other as far as calorie burn and fitness benefits?

I know the machines mimic running etc, but depending on the type of setting you use, you can burn a bunch of calories on the machines. And running outside obviously burns a bunch. Do any of you all alternate between these? Or do you hit the road or trail when the weather permits. Thanks everyone!

3dogsrunning

The answer all depends on your goals.
"Fit" means different things to different people.

If calories burned is your target, go for whatever you want or whichever you prefer to do. Although I would be careful as ellipticals can often overestimate. The METs for ellipitical is roughly half of running.

My goal is to be more fit for running and to run faster, so most of my running takes place outside. I would do the treadmill only if I had no other option. I don't bother with the elliptical as it doesn't really mimic running.

jemhh

I use a treadmill or go outside to walk or run. I don't pick either based on calorie burn. Rather, I make my choice based on weather, schedule, and convenience.

I never ever ever use an elliptical machine. The only other cardio machines I use are the sedentary or recumbent bikes and that's not too often.

Azdak

Calories burned is based on intensity and your ability to work at a certain intensity/workload will be based on your fitness level. So, essentially, whether you run on a treadmill, or work on a cross trainer, or run outside, you should be able to achieve comparable workloads/calorie burns.

(BTW, when I refer to "cross trainer" or "elliptical", I am referring to machines that incorporate arm and leg movement, not leg-only machines).

Sometimes people will experience a lower perceived exertion when doing one activity compared to another. In that case, they will likely work harder at that activity and thus burn more calories. However, the difference will be modest.

So, as it almost always does, it boils down to personal preference.

MinimalistShoeAddict

Treadmill is easier if your goal is watching ESPN highlights or NASDAQ ticker symbols while running.

Running outside is better if you like to eat during runs (and your gym objects to that). If you are preparing for a race with varied terrain and unknown weather conditions (potholes, sticks, rain, snow, etc) run outside. I almost collided with deer running ouside (several times) and have been in races with canines present. I have yet to see a deer inside the gym.

Calorie burn will be similar assuming your pace and incline is the same inside of out.

xLyric

MinimalistShoeAddict wrote: »

Treadmill is easier if your goal is watching ESPN highlights or NASDAQ ticker symbols while running.

Running outside is better if you like to eat during runs (and your gym objects to that). If you are preparing for a race with varied terrain and unknown weather conditions (potholes, sticks, rain, snow, etc) run outside. I almost collided with deer running ouside (several times) and have been in races with canines present. I have yet to see a deer inside the gym.

Calorie burn will be similar assuming your pace and incline is the same inside of out.

I'm not going to see a deer if I run outside, I'm more likely to get mugged. I'm also not going to go over 20 miles out of my way to run in nature several times a week when I have a gym at my apartment. If you use a treadmill, there's nothing wrong with bringing a phone or tablet and watching whatever you want if you don't like the options available. You're not on the couch, so who cares? I'm happy for you, though, since you do get to run in those conditions regularly.

OP, there is not going to be a big difference between running outside and running on the treadmill unless one or the other just really gets you going for some reason. YOU are in charge of your effort in both cases, and that will determine what kind of workout you get. If you like running outside, go for it. If you like the treadmill, go for it. Heck, maybe even do both if you want. Get in those deer viewings so the real runners don't judge you. I think there's a quota. Go crazy!

Can't offer opinions on the elliptical as I don't use it, but I will repeat that if you like it, go for it.

MinimalistShoeAddict

xLyric wrote: »

MinimalistShoeAddict wrote: »

Treadmill is easier if your goal is watching ESPN highlights or NASDAQ ticker symbols while running.

Running outside is better if you like to eat during runs (and your gym objects to that). If you are preparing for a race with varied terrain and unknown weather conditions (potholes, sticks, rain, snow, etc) run outside. I almost collided with deer running ouside (several times) and have been in races with canines present. I have yet to see a deer inside the gym.

Calorie burn will be similar assuming your pace and incline is the same inside of out.

I'm not going to see a deer if I run outside, I'm more likely to get mugged. I'm also not going to go over 20 miles out of my way to run in nature several times a week when I have a gym at my apartment. If you use a treadmill, there's nothing wrong with bringing a phone or tablet and watching whatever you want if you don't like the options available. You're not on the couch, so who cares? I'm happy for you, though, since you do get to run in those conditions regularly.

OP, there is not going to be a big difference between running outside and running on the treadmill unless one or the other just really gets you going for some reason. YOU are in charge of your effort in both cases, and that will determine what kind of workout you get. If you like running outside, go for it. If you like the treadmill, go for it. Heck, maybe even do both if you want. Get in those deer viewings so the real runners don't judge you. I think there's a quota. Go crazy!

Can't offer opinions on the elliptical as I don't use it, but I will repeat that if you like it, go for it.

Sorry if I seemed sarcastic. I do prefer running ouside so I admit my bias but I also like to watch ESPN on occasion (on a treadmill).

On a more serious note, I know some fancy treadmills have a decline option. My gym only has treadmills that offer inclines. I learned the lesson of why training with declines (only available outside in my case since I doubt my gym would approve of my placing weights under part of the treadmill to create an artificial decline) is important during my first half marathon. If you have never ran downhill before sore calf muscles will very likely follow your first attempt.

Witchdoctor58

I like an elliptical for pure calorie burn while I read, but don't belong to a gym anymore. Running is better anyway for bone density because it's weight bearing exercise. I usually use a treadmill because I get asthma running in cold weather, but I can also fine tune the intensity better on the machine, and end the session without worrying about dragging myself home. I also read on the treadmill when I'm speed walking or at a less intense part of the session. Personal choice.

nordlead2005

ignoring wind resistance and variations in road surfaces, a treadmill and street running are identical (assuming you aren't holding the rails and assuming we are comparing identical inclines).

elliptical vs running is close enough that you can call it a wash. I believe running burns a few more calories but we are talking a fraction of a % difference.

So, do whichever you enjoy the most. I personally run better on a treadmill because it helps me control my pace. If I am at a hotel I prefer the elliptical because I'm going to do significantly more cardio while on business travel than I normally do and it is easier on my knees. Basically, I don't want to hurt myself.

xLyric

MinimalistShoeAddict wrote: »

xLyric wrote: »

MinimalistShoeAddict wrote: »

Treadmill is easier if your goal is watching ESPN highlights or NASDAQ ticker symbols while running.

Running outside is better if you like to eat during runs (and your gym objects to that). If you are preparing for a race with varied terrain and unknown weather conditions (potholes, sticks, rain, snow, etc) run outside. I almost collided with deer running ouside (several times) and have been in races with canines present. I have yet to see a deer inside the gym.

Calorie burn will be similar assuming your pace and incline is the same inside of out.

I'm not going to see a deer if I run outside, I'm more likely to get mugged. I'm also not going to go over 20 miles out of my way to run in nature several times a week when I have a gym at my apartment. If you use a treadmill, there's nothing wrong with bringing a phone or tablet and watching whatever you want if you don't like the options available. You're not on the couch, so who cares? I'm happy for you, though, since you do get to run in those conditions regularly.

OP, there is not going to be a big difference between running outside and running on the treadmill unless one or the other just really gets you going for some reason. YOU are in charge of your effort in both cases, and that will determine what kind of workout you get. If you like running outside, go for it. If you like the treadmill, go for it. Heck, maybe even do both if you want. Get in those deer viewings so the real runners don't judge you. I think there's a quota. Go crazy!

Can't offer opinions on the elliptical as I don't use it, but I will repeat that if you like it, go for it.

Sorry if I seemed sarcastic. I do prefer running ouside so I admit my bias but I also like to watch ESPN on occasion (on a treadmill).

On a more serious note, I know some fancy treadmills have a decline option. My gym only has treadmills that offer inclines. I learned the lesson of why training with declines (only available outside in my case since I doubt my gym would approve of my placing weights under part of the treadmill to create an artificial decline) is important during my first half marathon. If you have never ran downhill before sore calf muscles will very likely follow your first attempt.

I keep seeing people getting kind of high and mighty about running outside vs. treadmill recently, so I think I'm just a little over sensitive, sorry, I'd love to run outside if I wouldn't immediately fall down dead from sun-related ailments.

H_Ock12

I normally use the elliptical during all seasons. My gait changes on the treadmill and I end up with awful shin pains, so I stay away from it. I used to love running trails when I lived in the mountains, but I don't live in the friendliest of cities and don't hanker to getting assaulted or shot, so the outdoors are a no go.

eldamiano

Treadmill running is pretend running. On a road, there isnt a conveyor belt doing half of the work for you. A road doesnt take up half of your front room either.

Cold weather is not a great excuse. Exercise warms you up...

SunnyDuckling

I love to be outside and I admittedly am one of those that find the treadmill BOR-ing!

However, I do use the cross-trainer at my gym because I have lingering knee issues from an old torn meniscus injury. Using the cross-trainer allows me to run faster, whereas moving outside on the ground would be too high impact.

Another benefit is that where I live, much of the year it is hot & humid and I don't tolerate hot weather well at all. Having an indoor alternative like the cross trainer or treadmill is one of the reasons I decided to get a gym membership.

robs_ready

Brocksterdanza wrote: »

It's that time of the year that the weather is changing and the opportunity of going outside is there. The question i have is do you foresee a huge difference in benefit to one or the other as far as calorie burn and fitness benefits?

I know the machines mimic running etc, but depending on the type of setting you use, you can burn a bunch of calories on the machines. And running outside obviously burns a bunch. Do any of you all alternate between these? Or do you hit the road or trail when the weather permits. Thanks everyone!

Running outside, burns the most calories and gets you the most fit, however, causing the most impact on joints.

e_v_v

Calorie burn:
Highest: Outside running
Moderate: Treadmill
Least: Elliptical

All 3 have their own benefits, but if you're looking for the highest calorie burn, head outside for a run. Running burns more calories than the elliptical, and the incline/wind variations help you burn even more. If the weather is crappy and you have bad knees (like me), then just crank up the resistance on the elliptical. All are great for different reasons.

Fernando618G

I always hit the outside, fresh air & sun for 1 but i also have hills so its a constant challenge

rsclause

I just can't do treadmills. I love being outside and often go where the wind blows me. I prefer to go early before the sun comes up. My brush with nature was while dark being attacked from behind by a flying ? It was dark and never saw the critter. Was bleeding and had claw marks in my hat. I than started to wonder, "what if it was a Bat"? I survived so it was either a non rabid bat or a bird.

SarcasmIsMyLoveLanguage

I have the benefit of living in a mild climate so I can run outdoors pretty well any time of year. Mentally, I just can't do the treadmill. I get bored in less than 5 minutes. When I'm outside there's variable terrain, nature, people, etc. I'm not sure of the science, but I would imagine running outside would be a better calorie burn unless you're on an incline on the treadmill. The treadmill absorbs a lot of impact which would be good if you have joint issues.

ETA: that being said, I don't think it would be a huge difference unless you're running for a long time.

chalaivy

MotherOfSharpei wrote: »

I normally use the elliptical during all seasons. My gait changes on the treadmill and I end up with awful shin pains, so I stay away from it. I used to love running trails when I lived in the mountains, but I don't live in the friendliest of cities and don't hanker to getting assaulted or shot, so the outdoors are a no go.

any idea what causes the shin pains? it's not calves, its specifically my shins. it's so weird!

CindyFooWho

SarcasmIsMyLoveLanguage wrote: »

I have the benefit of living in a mild climate so I can run outdoors pretty well any time of year. Mentally, I just can't do the treadmill. I get bored in less than 5 minutes. When I'm outside there's variable terrain, nature, people, etc. I'm not sure of the science, but I would imagine running outside would be a better calorie burn unless you're on an incline on the treadmill. The treadmill absorbs a lot of impact which would be good if you have joint issues.

ETA: that being said, I don't think it would be a huge difference unless you're running for a long time.

I agree with the bolded. I always feel like a treadmill, done without an incline, is more like jumping up and down than running and propelling yourself forward. That said, jumping up and down is not the worst workout either!

janejellyroll

I prefer running outside, but will use the treadmill when the weather or time of day isn't the best for an outdoor run.

I think both have their place in my training. My races are outside so I like to do outdoor running to prepare for those. I personally find it much more pleasant to run outside (assuming it isn't super-hot or cold out).

But sometimes it's nice to watch the news when I'm running and it's convenient to be able to set a pace and know that I'm consistently hitting it.

Noelv1976

I prefer to run outside, even during this past winter I logged more miles on the road, than the tread. I do like to use the elliptical as well after my strength training exercises, and in between run days.

mankars

Brocksterdanza wrote: »

It's that time of the year that the weather is changing and the opportunity of going outside is there. The question i have is do you foresee a huge difference in benefit to one or the other as far as calorie burn and fitness benefits?

I know the machines mimic running etc, but depending on the type of setting you use, you can burn a bunch of calories on the machines. And running outside obviously burns a bunch. Do any of you all alternate between these? Or do you hit the road or trail when the weather permits. Thanks everyone!

Remember.... Studies have shown the calorie lost numbers on those machines are not always right. Unless you are working toward serious muscle growth, the weighing scale will give you a "clear" picture if you are losing/gaining pounds.

I usually prefer to walk/jog outside than on a treadmill. But, unlike on a treadmill where you can keep a constant speed during an entire session, you can't do the same outside.

All the best.

ASKyle

3dogsrunning wrote: »

The answer all depends on your goals.
"Fit" means different things to different people.

If calories burned is your target, go for whatever you want or whichever you prefer to do. Although I would be careful as ellipticals can often overestimate. The METs for ellipitical is roughly half of running.

My goal is to be more fit for running and to run faster, so most of my running takes place outside. I would do the treadmill only if I had no other option. I don't bother with the elliptical as it doesn't really mimic running.

The bolded for everyone who thinks the elliptical is like running. It's not.

bubble_wrap0428

I never use elliptical unless it's for a HIIT session which is not very often. I run outside when weather premits. I usually run on the track/treadmill inside my gym because I also weight lift so I find myself doing that option the most. I think running outside is the most challenging, and when I wear my Fitbit I burn the most running outside. I like it the most because it's more entertaining.

blues4miles

MinimalistShoeAddict wrote: »

I have yet to see a deer inside the gym.

That would be either the worst or the best gym.

joolie1234

I'm in the minority I guess. I love to walk/hike outside with a companion to talk to, but running bores me to tears. I would rather run on the treadmill where I can binge-watch Netflix to pass the time.

jaynee7283

I don't do the elliptical at all. I mostly walk outside, but when it's raining or too hot, I hit up my gym.

Azdak

Witchdoctor58 wrote: »

I like an elliptical for pure calorie burn while I read, but don't belong to a gym anymore. Running is better anyway for bone density because it's weight bearing exercise. I usually use a treadmill because I get asthma running in cold weather, but I can also fine tune the intensity better on the machine, and end the session without worrying about dragging myself home. I also read on the treadmill when I'm speed walking or at a less intense part of the session. Personal choice.

Which ellipticals are non weight-bearing? Just curious.

don9992

The elliptical will be much easier on your knees than either of the other two choices.

Azdak

ASKyle wrote: »

3dogsrunning wrote: »

The answer all depends on your goals.
"Fit" means different things to different people.

If calories burned is your target, go for whatever you want or whichever you prefer to do. Although I would be careful as ellipticals can often overestimate. The METs for ellipitical is roughly half of running.

My goal is to be more fit for running and to run faster, so most of my running takes place outside. I would do the treadmill only if I had no other option. I don't bother with the elliptical as it doesn't really mimic running.

The bolded for everyone who thinks the elliptical is like running. It's not.

There is no one "calorie burn" for either a treadmill or an elliptical. So to say "the METs..is roughly half" is absurd. Commercial cross trainers have a workload range that goes from mild to beyond what is humanly possible. Calorie burn is based on workload intensity and either activity has a wide enough range of workload intensities that one can work at whatever load is necessary to achieve a desired calorie burn.