Is Treadmill Running Easier Due to No Air Resistance?

  • Thread starter Darkmisc
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In summary, the conversation discusses the differences between running on a treadmill and running outdoors in terms of drag and overall difficulty. Some argue that running on a treadmill may be easier due to the absence of drag, but others point out that the incline and settings of the treadmill can still provide a challenging workout. Ultimately, the difficulty of running depends on various factors such as speed, terrain, and individual experience.
  • #1
Darkmisc
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Does the absence of drag while running on a treadmill make it a significantly less taxing exercise than running outdoors?
 
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  • #2
The real question is, is it easier to run in water or maple syrup? :p
 
  • #3
Just ramp up the treadmill at an angle if you like...Otherwise, my experience is that maybe running on a horizontal treadmill might be a smidge easier...but still plently of exercise to get up a good cardio workout...
 
  • #4
Darkmisc said:
Does the absence of drag while running on a treadmill make it a significantly less taxing exercise than running outdoors?

The coefficient of drag for a person is pretty low, does your treadmill tell you how fast you are going?
 
  • #5
Buy a really strong fan.
 
  • #6
Magnawolf said:
Buy a really strong fan.

Magnawolf wins.

In all seriousness, any difference cause by wing drag can be more than accounted for by changing settings on your treadmill.
 
  • #7
Darkmisc said:
Does the absence of drag while running on a treadmill make it a significantly less taxing exercise than running outdoors?

I was interpreting the question to refer to the difference between a moving tread and a non-moving street. Personally I feel a difference, especially during interval training, in the foot-ground impact dynamic.

Watching olympic sprinters, they start to move their leading leg/foot backwards before the foot contacts the ground, perhaps to minimize the impact?
 
  • #8
Darkmisc said:
Does the absence of drag while running on a treadmill make it a significantly less taxing exercise than running outdoors?

I don't know, but I can tell you road running is much harder, because you have to pace yourself. Trail running is even harder due to soft or uneven ground, inclines, and weather.
 

What are the benefits of running on a treadmill compared to outdoor running?

There are several benefits to running on a treadmill, such as being able to control the speed and incline, running in a climate-controlled environment, and having a softer surface to run on, which can reduce impact on joints and muscles.

What are the advantages of running outdoors instead of on a treadmill?

Outdoor running allows for more variation in terrain, which can engage different muscles and improve balance and coordination. It also provides opportunities for fresh air, vitamin D from sunlight, and a change of scenery, which can make the run more enjoyable.

Is running on a treadmill equivalent to running outdoors in terms of calorie burning and overall fitness?

While both forms of running can provide similar cardiovascular benefits, studies have shown that running outdoors may burn slightly more calories due to factors such as wind resistance and changes in terrain. Additionally, outdoor running may engage a wider range of muscles, leading to more overall fitness benefits.

What are the potential drawbacks of running on a treadmill?

Some potential drawbacks of running on a treadmill include a lack of variation in terrain, which may lead to muscle imbalances, and the potential for boredom from running in the same place for an extended period of time. Treadmill running also does not provide the same sensory experience as running outdoors.

Is it better to exclusively run on a treadmill or outdoors, or should a combination of both be incorporated into a running routine?

The best approach is to incorporate both treadmill and outdoor running into a routine. This allows for a balance of the benefits and drawbacks of each form of running and can lead to a more well-rounded and enjoyable workout. It is also important to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and duration of each type of running based on individual needs and goals.

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