When I first started running, it was a minute at a time in between brisk walking on the treadmill. Over time, one minute transformed into ten and eventually into the 30 I run practically every day. Like many health nuts, I've become addicted to that runner's high and the way it keeps my body in shape---but recently I've been changing up my usual trek to the gym.

In light of these past couple of weeks which have had more sunny days than anything else, I've been running on the trail near my house. Instead of staring at counters which tell me how long and how many calories I've been burning, I've been wistfully watching cabbage moths and baby rabbits flit around my line of sight. My pale skin has turned caramel. It's in the face of these variables that I can't help but wonder: "Why ever run on a treadmill again?" Or, more wisely: "What positives does a run on the treadmill have that a run on the trial does not?" These questions have led me to explore the differences and similarities of running on either medium and why, if one is fortunate enough to have access to a treadmill and a breath-taking trail, switching between both methods may be best.

Where They Impact You The Same:

In terms of how running outside versus on the treadmill affects you physically, several studies have shown that it is medial if the treadmill is adjusted correctly. For instance, when running on the treadmill, adjusting the incline slightly upward can make up for the lack of wind resistance. Additionally, running on the treadmill requires virtually the same amount of oxygen as does outdoor running, as found by this study.

Where They Differ:

Whether it's for cross country or just around the block, most can say they've run outside at some point. Moreover, most can say that visually outdoor running is more enjoyable than indoor because they can visualize if they are getting close to their "finish line." However, when it comes to running outside, the definition of perfect weather conditions varies person to person.

As I mentioned earlier, I love running in the intense heat with the sun shining down on me. However, I have read testimonies where people recount the tremendous fun they had running on a cold and rainy day. Being a klutz, I know that I would opt out on a rainy day for the treadmill in fear of slipping. Those who adore rainy-runs may tap-out on my sunny days. That's where the treadmill comes in---you don't have to run through the weather conditions you find uncomfortable.

Equally important to keep in mind is that, running outside forces you to learn how to find and maintain a pace as opposed to "setting and forgetting it" on the treadmill. Running exclusively on the treadmill would then make it difficult to maintain your pacing independently if you eventually find yourself running with friends or in a race.

Conclusion:

Surely with the above in mind, it is obvious why most people should maintain a happy medium between how much they run on the treadmill verses on the trial. As in most things, variety is the way to go when approaching the setting of your runs.