Turning into an outdoor runner

hotpickles

Hi everyone!

I was going to buy a gym membership and keep running indoors, but I figured it all out and it was going to be way too much money. Therefore, I'm taking my (free) run outdoors.

The thing I get a bit discouraged about is the fact I can run longer indoors on the treadmill. I know that when I'm outdoors I'm running quicker, and the environment is just different anyways. I run around a track, so when I can essentially run the distance of 4 laps indoors, but can only do 1 lap outdoors, I get discouraged.

Am I on the right track, just starting it off slow, and trying not to compare the two?

L.

kt2007

Hey if your running indoors on treadmill it will make you better in the outdoor eventually. If you can get out and do some outside running is great. I do most all my stuff in doors. i try to have a race every month and of course this is outside. just keep focused and stick it out.

khskr1

You are totally correct. Running on a treadmill is easier than outside. Try the Couch to 5 K program (C25k). That will help you progress slowly outside. I was never a runner and ran my first 5k in november. If you use the treadmill set the incline to 1. That will help simulate the outdoor environment a little bit.

Good luck!!!

TheMaidOfAstolat

I love to run outside...but I prefer trails. See if there is a park near you and try doing trails instead...just know the length of the trails (it's usually marked in some way).

hotpickles

Hmmm, I did the C25K back in the fall. I started it outdoors, then finished up indoors. I wonder, do you think it's a good idea to maybe re-start it, and complete it all outdoors? I think I could probably start further on in the program, considering I can run 1/2 a mile okay.

L.

rybo

Some people do better outside, some do better inside. Just stick with the one that works for you. Personally I love it outside. Hate the treadmill even though I feel its an "easier" run.
Good luck