By Kenneth Muir (Contributor) – Email
Print Edition: May 23, 2012
All my life, I’ve never understood the point of treadmills. I think I’ve spent less than two hours of my life on those blasted machines, and it’s worth noting that I run on a semi-regular basis, and have been doing so for the last 10 years or so. What’s the appeal of simulating the lifestyle of a hamster?
Treadmills seem especially popular with people who exercise only for fitness: a demographic that encompasses young women, a few young males, but mostly the middle-aged. I’ve always thought the reason for their persistence is that they simply don’t know there are other ways to get their jog on. I am also inclined to think that most people who frequently use treadmills tend to exercise passively. They want to exercise, but they don’t want to become “exercise people.” They’ve seen that one sweaty, hairy Ukrainian guy who plays squash every day, and they’ve thought, “No, I don’t want any of that, thanks.” I promise you, however, that running outside is so much better than tread-milling, and I further proclaim that once you go tarmac, you won’t go back. That totally rhymes, shut up. But if you don’t believe me, I’ll break down the pros and cons of each discipline.
Treadmills
Really, any stationary aerobic machine falls into this category, so this includes treadmills, stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, rowing machines, etc.
Pro: Not dependent on the elements. This is probably the largest advantage to indoor machines. If it’s raining out, snowing, cold, and dark (think winter at 8 p.m.), it’s still possible to go for a long run and to stay dry.
Con: Treadmills and other aerobic machines are expensive. If you’re actually looking to own one you could be looking at $3000 or more, and visiting a public gym costs around $5 per trip. And that adds up in a hurry.
Pro: Can be a social activity. Since machines are often placed next to each other, if you bring along a friend, you can potentially engage in conversation or just be social while exercising. Spin classes are an example of this concept being put into positive action. Furthermore, it’s possible to stay social no matter what skill level gaps there may be. For example, you can run much faster than your neighbor and still chat with.
Con: It’s really, really boring, and extremely monotonous. Time passes incredibly slowly on a treadmill.
Pro: It’s possible to entertain yourself while running by watching TV, listening to music, or reading a magazine. Though in my experience, this doesn’t completely exhume the monotony.
Outdoor Running
Outdoor running, as a category, includes track running, trail running, and road running. If you know of any other kind of running, please let me know, because I think that pretty much covers it.
Pro: Variation. Outdoor running allows for an excessive amount of choice, and where you run will have an impact on the upcoming intensity of the workout. For example, if you pick a running route that includes a lot of hills, you’ll have your work cut out for you.
Con: Dependent on the weather. If the weather sucks, so will your run. It’s not that you can’t go for a jog; you’ll just have less fun doing so. Both your clothes and your spirits will be dampened.
Pro: Cheap. All you need is a pair of shoes.
Con: Less social opportunities. Though you still can run in groups with other people, they need to be of a similar skill level. You’ll quickly discover how difficult it is to carry on a conversation with someone when they’re a kilometer behind you.
Pro: You’re outside. This means you’ll be getting your daily dose of fresh air and sunshine, and plus you can work on your tan. Or develop an awesome new sunburn. Chicks dig sunburns, right?
Though it’s possible to go either way, personally the pros of outdoor running are so much more appealing than those of treadmills. I can’t promise that you’ll feel the same way, but at least now you’ll have a slightly more educated position on the subject. In any case, I strongly urge the treadmillers among you to take a heartfelt stab at outdoor running; it’s miles better than running indoors (pun intentional).
