11 Jun Is it better to run on a treadmill or outside?

When it comes to exercising, it’s hard to beat the feeling of a good run.
Whether it’s a leisurely jog around the neighborhood, some interval training on the treadmill, or one of those days when I can go for a three-plus mile jog, running is an excellent way to stay fit and burn off calories quickly.
There are obviously two main places to run: inside on a treadmill or outside. A third location can be added if you have access to an indoor track.
When it comes to running, as At Home Fitness’ staff writer and blogger I’ve had a number of people ask me, “Which is better for you, running outdoors or on a treadmill?”
That’s a great question, but there’s really no universal, one-size-fits-all answer.
It’s really a matter of personal preference and health history. Personally, I like to mix in both.
Running on a treadmill is easier on your body because the landing is cushioned better and you don’t have to deal with the outside elements. You can also pass the time on a treadmill by watching TV. I prefer to do most of my running on a treadmill.
However, it’s also good to mix in variety, so you shouldn’t limit all your running to one or the other.
Living in Ohio, I run on a treadmill during the winter, but when the weather is warmer it’s a great feeling to enjoy the outdoors by running outside.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com