Running Outside, Manual, or Electric Treadmills: How To Choose
If you want to improve your workout by spending more time running, then you’re already on the right track and understand the positive effects of exercise. But how do you decide the best running environment for yourself? Do you run outdoors, on a street, track, or running trail/bike path? Do you run indoors with a manual treadmill? Or do you buy an electric treadmill for your workout at home?
There are many choices for how you want to get fit. When it really comes down to it, the most important factor of all is personal preference. If you really prefer one of these options over the others, then that is what you should do, of course! But if you’re having trouble deciding, here’s an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Running Outside
This is, of course, the most affordable form of working out, and it certainly has its advantages. The outdoors provides fresh air and often picturesque scenery. But in cold, wet, or windy weather it can be nearly impossible to run (or build up the will power to even go outside.) Also, running outdoors forces you to keep your own momentum going. It’s easy to allow yourself to slow down or walk, which gives running outdoors a huge disadvantage as compared to the consistency of an electric treadmill.
Manual Treadmill Running
Manual treadmills bring your workout indoors. This means you can run in all weather, and can even watch TV while you do. You can also run for shorter periods, whenever you have time, rather than having to devote yourself to outdoor distance. (On a treadmill, you’re always nearby!) But manual treadmills use your own muscle and momentum to keep the track running, making them a big challenge to runners. They are good for walking, but for running you may want to find an electric version.
Electric Treadmill Running
That’s why electric treadmills were invented. They keep the belt running at a consistent speed, and you’re always challenged to keep up with them. This allows you to run faster, longer, and farther, and focus your energy on the run, not the belt. An electric treadmill also features easy shifting height/incline, and many can measure your heart rate and keep track of the calories you have burned on your run. The downside is that they cost a bit more, but if you know what you’re looking for, you can wait until you find a good deal on it; the investment is, for most regular runners, well worth it.
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