Running outside vs. treadmill: Local expert weighs in on pros, cons

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) – With warm weather here, many may be deciding whether or not to move their exercise routine outside.

A local physical therapist is weighing in on whether it’s better to run outside or run on the treadmill.

“They both have some pros and cons,” Aaron Cingle, physical therapist for Kettering Health Sports Medicine in Tipp City, said.

Cingle said there are plenty of benefits to running outside. The first is that you have control over your pace the entire run. You also get to spend time outdoors.

“Just exercising and being outside has been linked to decreased rates of depression and just in overall mental well-being,” Cingle said.

Cingle said running on the treadmill has some pros too, including providing better shock absorption.

“Maybe if you’re just coming back from like an injury or something, hey, that better shock absorption on the treadmill might be a little bit easier on the body compared to just running on the sidewalks,” Cingle said.

Cingle said one con to the treadmill is that it doesn’t work as many muscle groups as outside running.

“I would guess that’s due to the uneven terrain that you get, especially the lower leg muscles,” Cingle said.

However, choosing to run indoors on the treadmill provides a controlled environment, protecting you from the elements and other risks.

“Running outside, you do have to contend with other factors, such as other people, animals, cars,” Cingle said.

If you’re training for an outdoor race, like a marathon or 5K, Cingle said there’s no replacement for training outside. However, if training on a treadmill fits better into your routine, go for it.

Cingle said, ultimately, it’s up to personal preference.

“It just depends on the person,” Cingle said. “There’s pros and cons of both. My recommendation is if you can, try them both and see which one you like better.”

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