I used to go running outside but I always found that my mile runs always ended up taking 7-8 minutes. I can never seem to "force" myself to running fast, however when I run on the treadmill I can set it to a sub 6 minute mile pace. I was wondering what, if anything am I losing in running the treadmill vs. "real" running.
The functional movement is different on tradmill vs. real running.
When running you just put your foot down and the treadmill slides it back. When actually running you have to project your BW forward which on treadmill you do not have to do.
"When running you just put your foot down and the treadmill slides it back. When actually running you have to project your BW forward which on treadmill you do not have to do."
hmm...but what does this mean in terms of cardio benefit? It seems that the treadmill makes me work much much harder. If my genetic twin were to do the same running/conditioning on an outdoor track, who would become a better conditioned athlete?
"When running you just put your foot down and the treadmill slides it back. When actually running you have to project your BW forward which on treadmill you do not have to do."
hmm...but what does this mean in terms of cardio benefit? It seems that the treadmill makes me work much much harder. If my genetic twin were to do the same running/conditioning on an outdoor track, who would become a better conditioned athlete?
technically running outside would be better, but treadmills are great. Don't always feel like running outside when it's bitter cold out. Nothing wrong with sometimes alternating between outside runs and treadmill. just switch it up
That's debatable... treadmill FORCES you to work. When you actually run you only force yourself:) It might be you are not that efficient in it...:P
try putting a 2% incline on it ( or is it three)
yah, I cannot run worth shit, however when i use the treadmill, it magically makes me a faster runner. Although I do end up near death when i am done, I would never push myself this hard if I ran outside.
I second the incline idea. Depending on the type or brand of treadmill you have available I would recommend experimenting with different combinations of speed and incline.
On fast treadmills (those that can go over 15 MPH) I do not have my guys run faster but increase work with the incline instead.
If you have the incline trainers you are in business with the ability to increase angle to 30-50 degree incline. Now that is a tough workout.
TAKU
Somebody on here made a table where they showed the speed on a treadmill and the required incline to make it equivalent to running on real ground ... I'll see if I can find a link.
edit: here's one - http://www.trinewbies.com/run_treadmill_chart.asp