Estimated read time: 3 minutes.
If you’re a runner, chances are you’ve at least considered running on a treadmill at some point. After all, treadmills are a great way to get in a workout when the weather outside is less than ideal. However, there are some disadvantages to running on a treadmill that you should be aware of before you make the switch from running outdoors. Let’s look at some of the main disadvantages of running on a treadmill.
Disadvantages of Running on a Treadmill
- You’re more likely to get injured.
When you run on a treadmill, you’re confined to a small space, and the size of the belt limits your stride. This can lead to overuse injuries such as tendonitis, shin splints, and stress fractures. In addition, the impact of your feet hitting the treadmill belt can put stress on your knees and hips.
- You can become bored easily.
When you run outdoors, there are always new sights and sounds to keep you entertained. But when you’re running on a treadmill, you’re staring at the same wall or TV screen for the entire workout duration. This can quickly lead to boredom and make it more difficult to stay motivated to keep running.
- You might not burn as many calories.
When you run outdoors, you have to contend with wind resistance, changes in terrain, and other factors that make running more difficult. As a result, you end up burning more calories than you would if you were running on a treadmill.
- You miss out on vitamin D.
When you run outdoors, you’re exposed to natural sunlight, which allows your body to absorb vitamin D. When you’re running on a treadmill indoors, you miss out on this important nutrient.
- You might not be able to replicate your race pace indoors.
If you’re training for a race, it’s important to replicate your race pace during training runs so that you can get accustomed to running at that speed. However, it can be difficult to accurately replicate your race pace on a treadmill because of the confined space and lack of wind resistance.
- The cost of a treadmill can be prohibitive for some people.
Treadmills range in price from around $500 for a basic model up to $5000 or more for a top-of-the-line model with all the bells and whistles. You might want to stick with running outdoors if cost is an issue.
- You might not have enough space for a treadmill.
Treadmills can be large and bulky, so if space is limited in your home, you might not have room for one. Before investing, make sure you measure your available space and compare it with the footprint of the treadmill models you’re considering.
- Falling From the Treadmill.
This can happen to anyone at anytime but is much more common with beginners. Slipping or losing your footing while running on a treadmill can result in serious injury, so it’s important to be aware of the risks before you start running. So pay attention to the safety warnings and take things slowly at first until you get used to running on a treadmill.
- You need to be careful about overtraining on a treadmill.
If you use the treadmill too often or run for too long, you could overtrain and get sick or injured. Be sure to listen to your body and give yourself plenty of rest days, so you don’t overdo it.
Conclusion:
So there you have it—9 disadvantages of running on a treadmill. Does this mean that you should never run on a treadmill? Not necessarily—treadmills can be great for getting in a quick workout when time is tight or when conditions outside aren’t ideal (think: blazing hot summer days or sub-zero winter days). Just mix things up by heading outdoors for your runs whenever possible!
I also love blogging. It's a great way to share my thoughts and experiences with others. And, of course, family is very important to me. I have five kids (three girls and two boys) who keep me busy (in a good way!)
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