Worth Repeating: Indoor Vs. Outdoor Walking/Running

The weather has been just lovely the past few days in Toronto.  The perfect weather to walk or run outside, which I have been fully taking advantage of.  

However, I know that the cooler, darker weather is just around the corner and many of you will be taking your runs/walks inside so I thought this post comparing indoor and outdoor running/walking might helpful.  Enjoy!



Indoor (Treadmill) Walking/Running

Pros

• You can do it any time (if you have one in your home) and it very private
• You can walk/run in all kinds of weather (however, you may still need to get to the gym)
• Provides some cushion to support the knees
• Can provide a challenge if you are used to outdoor walking/running
• Equip with tools such calories burned, pace, incline and decline (on some models)
• Are able to read or watch TV during your workout, which can be a motivator

Cons

• Can be a costly investment
• Not as convenient if you don't have one at home and are unable to get to the gym
• Walking or running in place can get boring for some people

Outdoor Walking/Running

Pros

• The fresh air and exploring the wonderful places in your neighbourhood
• Can be a challenge if you are used to treadmill walking/running
• Able to run/walk with a partner or as a group
• It is free, with no line ups or waiting for equipment
• Achieve a greater feeling of accomplishment (this one is hard to explain, it is like you have actually "been" somewhere)

Cons

• Can be weather permitting (although many people get out there, cold, rain or shine)
• Easier to lose track of time as the numbers are not right in front of you
• Not very private

Time for you to weigh in!  Indoors or outdoors and why? 
Do you find one harder than the other?



Stay Healthy,
Tracy

Indoor Vs. Outdoor Walking/Running

A gorgeous day today, absolutely perfect weather for an outdoor run.

Speaking of running, I tweeted earlier this week that I set foot on the treadmill for the first time in years and I have to admit, it wasn't so bad.  I still prefer to be outside, but I actually found it tougher than my outdoor runs.

This got me to thinking about the reasons why.

It could be because my body is very used to my outdoor route and the feel of the pavement.  It could also be that I was doing much more hill work.

The feeling of the treadmill is very different, and I think I am going to start incorporating it into my weekly regime as a way to mix up my workouts.
(I am as shocked as you are:)

With that in mind, I thought I would put together a quick post comparing indoor and outdoor running/walking.

Indoor (Treadmill) Walking/Running