Why is running outside so much harder than on a treadmill?

[ormirian]

I get that there differences but surely not enough to make that much difference?

I started running on a treadmill in the gym many many years ago and decided to keep on with the running as it was what I liked best (and it was free!). Was horrified how much harder long runs are outside.

Only asking because a colleague is tentatively planning a half marathon but intends to train entirely in the gym. I told him I didn't think it was a good idea and that no matter how fit you are in the gym you are a great deal less fit outside. But it got me wondering why?

Treadmills are sprung and the road surface moves under you. You spend less energy running on it and you can get away with much worse running form.

I hate running on a treadmill, seems so much harder to me and I can't go longer than about 2 minutes.

I asked about this in the gym and was told it's normally the opposite, it's because of balance apparently.

This is quite a useful article.

What Kisses said. I've been advised that if you want to replicate road running on a treadmill, you have to put the treadmill to 1.0 - 1.5 degrees.

Actually you are virtually running in the spot on a treadmill rather than having to work on propelling yourself forward outside. I tend to use the treadmill to slowly rehab clients back to running after an injury as its generally easier (and you can stop if you feel niggles!).

You aren't actually putting the effort in to move your body forwards on the treadmill, just your legs. Plus no wind, you can control the hills and you can just turn your brain off.

I also usually run "cross-country" so no flat ground, undergrowth etc

In his position if it was easier to run on the treadmill I'd still try to get at least one "proper" run in a week.

By "easier" I meant that if he has childcare responsibilities so he can only turn the treadmill on, has to remain in the gym building whilst DC have swimming lessons etc. Not just physically easier but more possible to find the time.

I find treadmill running so boring.

Running outside is harder - because of inclines, dodging potholes/dog shit , listening out for traffic..

But it is more interesting.

Outside wins for me.

There's a 30km/h wind today, I wish I had gone on the treadmill instead of outside! I like both, but find it easier to run faster outside. No way I would run a half marathon without running outside at all. Running with other people in the way is very different. Wherever I run, I use audiobooks to pass the time.

I'm not an expert, but I don't see how you could go from training on a softer springy surface like a treadmill to suddenly running 21km on Tarmac. Surely you would get injured?

The whole point of building up your mileage gradually (not more than 10% a week ) is to allow your body to get used , among other things, to the pounding on the hard surface .

And how will she practise things like hydration, nutrition, what to wear , dealing with weather etc while training in totally different conditions ?

I usually run on the treadmill but I find outdoor running easier

The problem with outdoor for me is getting the clothing right, I hate being too hot and hate having to carry anything while I run.

Suzanne -I only run outdoors and I still find it hard to get the clothing right, especially at this time of year. One day I'm in s/s t shirt and capris, the next in long tights, jacket , gloves and headband

I ended up with 3 tops tied around my waist earlier on today! It's so hard gauging how warm you are going to get and then if you are coming back lateish in the day it can cool down very quickly.

ormirian your friend may need to recalibrate their split times and target time.

Thank you all. He has damaged his knee so is not running. Pleases me just a little because he told me that the reason I always got injured (believe me I am often injured was because I run on 'unsuitable' surfaces. Who made him the bloody expert [Hmm] ?

Got a bit of a shock yesterday. Observer had a page showing the things a modern marathoner uses including an iPod with music with a bpm of 180 which is a moderate speed. Ho hum! I manage between 160 and 170 on a good day. I guess I'll not run any marathons soon...