Treadmill vs. pavement

[6FtWithHeels]

Hi everyone, I'm new around here. 
When there's no ice on the ground I like to do the C25K program. I really want to get serious about it and it looks like the weather isn't improving anytime soon, so I'm going to join a gym. I was curious about the differences between the treadmill and the pavement.  I heard that the treadmill is easier but boring.  I hope it's easier on my knees too. I'm joining the gym this week and I have to say I'm nervous about running on a treadmill.  I usually feel like Im going to fall off because I have a large stride but I'm sure it's impossible. Lol

[blndsnbrdr]

Start slow on the treadmill -- forget what the numbers say and go with what feels right for you at the moment. With time you'll start correlating mph to mpm to what you prefer. Until then, just bump the speed up/down as you need to.

I'd recommend putting 1% incline on the TM to make it more similar to pavement running. It's not a true science, but pancake flat (ie: treadmill) running does not exist outside so any incline will help a bit.

Also, take your phone/ipad/headphones and watch Netflix/Hulu while you're running -- it'll help pass the time and a lot of the sitcoms are just the right length for a 25-30 minute bout of treadmillin'!

Good luck -- and have fun, especially once you get outside off the TM!

(btw, I'm a TM hater. Others may have more positive feedback!)

[katyintx]

I'm also a TM hater... BUT, it's good to avoid falling on your ass outside!

I agree w/the 1% incline, and the only other thing I have to add is that I have a pretty long stride and I've never come close to falling off the treadmill. Good luck!

[Deleted]

The tips above are all spot on. I'd emphasize--go slow! Build endurance and strength properly. I started at 4.2mph for the slowest jog ever, but could do the 20min run in C25K and didn't get injured. Speed will happen over time; and you're always faster than the person sitting on the couch. Also, I was surprised to see I go faster on pavement, so it feels like you're slogging it out on the treadmill but there's a chance that once you're outdoors (and it's less boring), your pace may pick up on the road.

[6FtWithHeels]

Thanks for the great advice. I forgot that I could adjust the incline.
I hate the treadmill too. Between the weather and a mugging (!) around here I'm forced to use it. :/. Hopefully it warms up soon. I also hate that I feel funny walking when I get off of the TM. Lol

[thom]

Welcome! I think the treadmill is a necessary evil, but it's actually nice for those workouts that you really want to hit a specific pace. It has its place. Plus, you can have your water or Gatorade right next to you the whole time.

Others gave some good info; I totally recommend finding some fav music, TV, or my preference -- audio books or podcasts. Good luck!

[shoeless]

Hi!
I agree with pp but wanted to add that yes the treadmill is generally easier on joints. I hate the treadmill but I find that I need to do one trail run or treadmill run a week if I want to fit in 4 runs a week and remain uninjured.

[6FtWithHeels]

Thanks ladies!
shoeless, that's good to hear, thx!

[bostonmichelle]

I've been running on the treadmill during the winter and it is such a mind game. When I get outside it is easier to run since I'm running past things and can have visual markers. I find I run a bit faster outside and its easier than on the treadmill. But for me its a necessary evil to run on the treadmill.