C25K: Outside vs. Treadmill

getskinnyk8

I started the C25K and it is TEN THOUSAND times easier on the treadmill outside. Has anybody else experienced this? Why is this?

Outside of C25K, I can run a mile on the treadmill at 5.5 mph, but I can't come even close to running a mile outside. What gives?

SueInAz

Running on a treadmill is just easier overall. If you aren't using some incline, the treadmill is taking away the resistance of running against the ground since it's going the other way from which you are running.

Add about a 1% incline when you use the treadmill, otherwise, you'll always have difficulties running outside.

Edited for stupid typos.

healthy_KT

I want to start running outside but it's just too hot right now so I've settled for the elliptical since the treadmill gives me shin splints. Once it starts getting cooler I'm going to start the c25k. I would love to be a runner. That's one of my goals.

rodneyderrick

I started the C25K and it is TEN THOUSAND times easier on the treadmill outside. Has anybody else experienced this? Why is this?

Outside of C25K, I can run a mile on the treadmill at 5.5 mph, but I can't come even close to running a mile outside. What gives?

Make sure you keep running outside also, because the treadmill isn't like running on the street. I put my treadmill on an incline of at least 2%, but I think 1% will put it somewhat at street level.

hotstuff76

bump

igora_soma

That happened to me too when I first started it! What I would recommend is doing the first workout for the week on the treadmill and then doing the other two outside. It's harder outside but totally worth it! Now I have a hard time running on a treadmill, it's just so much nicer outside!

Keep up the good work!

LorinaLynn

I'm the opposite. Running outside is so much easier for me. I think it's the air flow. And treadmills are so dead boring.

NinjaMonkey201

I know exactly what you mean! I just started the C25K. I'm doing it on the treadmill because it feels better on my knee. When I'm done, I'm going to restart it but hit the pavement instead.
I've noticed that when I jog outside, I'm not able to pace myself and I go too fast too quickly and wear myself out.

KEShikes

Outside has hills, wind, ground resistance...but it also has fresh air, nice breezes, scenery, distractions. I'd take your run outdoors when possible. Winter will send you indoors more regularly soon enough.

Also, if your goal is to run a 5K, the race will be outside, so you should get used to it.

conchita962

You aren't actually moving your body forward that's why it's easier....I started C25K outside and i find it sooooo much better and easier.

KimertRuns13_1

If you plan to run a 5k race and will be doing all your training on the treadmill then set the treadmill to 2% incline. The treadmill is going to be easier than running outside because you can control the environment inside better than you can outside. I encourage you to keep doing some running outside though!

tam120

I was amazed at how different it was when I first started running outside, it was damn near impossible and very frustrating since I had already signed up for a 5K. But once I got the right shoes (the two pair I had tried ouside were actually a half size too big) and started running outside consistently it got much easier. Except those hills and that wind and especially when you're running uphill against the wind. The best run is a warm rain (until your phone gets wet) Keep at it, it'll get easier. :bigsmile:

bookyeti

I have the same problem as the OP. I can run 5k no problem on a treadmill, but have a VERY difficult time doing that outside. I think the main reason is because I run much faster outside (without knowing it), and get tired out far sooner. The treadmill keeps me at certain speed (for me, 4.5mph is my limit), while outside I have no way of knowing how fast I'm running and am probably going far faster than I'm used to. Recently, when I realized this, I literally forced myself to slow down a lot... and I did much better.

I also find that if you have problems with your joints, running outside is much harder on them. My hubby is a physical therapist, and he said that long-term pavement running can do a number on your joints, regardless of your shoes or your form. Treadmills are cushioned, and while they're much more boring to run on, are definitely more joint-friendly.