05:09
Faizan
Running is an increasingly popular type of physical activity. You may choose running for your daily exercise or simply because you enjoy doing it. Although treadmill running is ideal if you live in an area where access to tracks is limited and for days with inclement weather conditions, it may not be as effective as track running if speed is your primary focus.
Running Against the Wind
Unless you place your treadmill outside in a windy area, there is virtually no air resistance experienced while running. Though not necessarily an issue, it will create a noticeable difference when you take your running to the track. Even on a calm day, track running will be more challenging because of air resistance. At times, it may feel easier if you are running with the air flow but, overall, your treadmill speed will be slightly higher because air is still while indoors.
Incline to Reap the Benefits
Running on a level track versus a non-inclined treadmill at equal speeds will result in different energy demands being placed upon your body. Because the treadmill belt moves with you, at least a 1 percent incline is necessary to elicit similar energy demands to track running. Therefore, your speeds and effort cannot be equally measured unless these considerations are taken into account. Because the belt movement contributes to your speed ability, you may be able to run faster on a treadmill than on a track.
High Intensity Interval Training
Interval training is a great way to increase your intensity without lengthening your workouts. Intervals are often performed on a treadmill by sprinting followed by a recovery walk and repeating. Though it's a good workout, you lose a significant amount of time by waiting for the treadmill speed to slow and then increase again. Track running allows you to sprint at top speed, immediately slow to a walk or jog, before returning to a sprinting pace.
Safety Considerations
If top speed is your training goal, track running is a more challenging, realistic and accurate method. You are not limited by a treadmill's top speed and do not have the added ease of a moving belt. But, treadmills provide protection from inclement weather conditions that might cause an injury. In addition, the side railings are a great safety device if you feel dizzy, faint or lose balance. Although some tracks are cushioned, treadmills provide a soft landing surface, which protects your joints. Check with your doctor if you feel pain or have concerns while participating in a running program.
Running Against the Wind
Unless you place your treadmill outside in a windy area, there is virtually no air resistance experienced while running. Though not necessarily an issue, it will create a noticeable difference when you take your running to the track. Even on a calm day, track running will be more challenging because of air resistance. At times, it may feel easier if you are running with the air flow but, overall, your treadmill speed will be slightly higher because air is still while indoors.
Incline to Reap the Benefits
Running on a level track versus a non-inclined treadmill at equal speeds will result in different energy demands being placed upon your body. Because the treadmill belt moves with you, at least a 1 percent incline is necessary to elicit similar energy demands to track running. Therefore, your speeds and effort cannot be equally measured unless these considerations are taken into account. Because the belt movement contributes to your speed ability, you may be able to run faster on a treadmill than on a track.
High Intensity Interval Training
Interval training is a great way to increase your intensity without lengthening your workouts. Intervals are often performed on a treadmill by sprinting followed by a recovery walk and repeating. Though it's a good workout, you lose a significant amount of time by waiting for the treadmill speed to slow and then increase again. Track running allows you to sprint at top speed, immediately slow to a walk or jog, before returning to a sprinting pace.
Safety Considerations
If top speed is your training goal, track running is a more challenging, realistic and accurate method. You are not limited by a treadmill's top speed and do not have the added ease of a moving belt. But, treadmills provide protection from inclement weather conditions that might cause an injury. In addition, the side railings are a great safety device if you feel dizzy, faint or lose balance. Although some tracks are cushioned, treadmills provide a soft landing surface, which protects your joints. Check with your doctor if you feel pain or have concerns while participating in a running program.
Posted in: Running
