Treadmill Training for Runners

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One question that many runners ask is if running on a treadmill is an effective way to prepare them for running outdoors for events like marathons. Research has shown that treadmill training for runners can actually give them a performance edge in a race against someone who has done all of their training outside. Part of this is due to the fact that outdoor runners are completely at the mercy of the weather and are likely to not get in as much regular exercise. If you actually alternate between both types of running you get the best of both worlds and will gain the biggest advantage come race day.

The Pros of Using a Treadmill

The biggest advantage to using a treadmill is that no matter what the weather is doing outside, you can still get your run in. This way when the snow is falling or it is pouring down with rain you can still push yourself and get in that strenuous training run. On top of this the average temperature of most homes is very similar to that of both fall and spring when most marathons are held.

When you run outside it is easy to get off pace and start to slow down as you begin to tire. If you need to be running at a set pace, you can set the belt speed for that exact pace and it will push you to stay running at that pace for the time you have set. This can be a great way to build up your endurance for those long marathon runs.

One of the worst parts of running outside is the risk of injury. Typically runners tend to suffer from sprained ankles and other joints and they trip of fall due to any number of obstacles such as potholes. Add to this the risk of being run over or hit by a car in areas where the traffic is heavy and running indoors starts to look much better. Beyond eliminating these problems the deck of most treadmills is padded to provide extra cushioning during treadmill training for runners. This reduces the strain on the knees and other joints allowing you to save them for race day.

The Cons of Using a Treadmill

For most people the biggest disadvantage they see in using a treadmill for their training is simply being bored. Running in place can certainly be boring, but if you create your own playlist of workout songs on an mp3 player you may find that the runs seem to be less boring. Some people will watch television or listen to things like motivational or educational tapes while they run and try to learn as they go. Any of these can certainly break the monotony and keep you going when it seems so boring.

Other than this some complain that a treadmill cannot replace the hills and curves you have to deal with when running outside. While this is true to a certain extent, most new treadmills feature an adjustable incline to help simulate running up hills. This will take care of working the muscles you need for running the marathons every bit as well as running outside does.

To sum it all up, treadmill training for runners when used in conjunction with other training methods including running outside will make you a better overall performer and will give you what may be the winning edge you need in your next race.