Transition To Running Outdoors
Summer is finally here – and with warmer, sunnier days ahead, many runners are making the transition to running outdoors.
Running is one of the simplest and most effective forms of cardio, with benefits including stress relief, calorie burn, potential weight loss, and more. Running outdoors allows you to reap all these benefits, including a change in scenery to alleviate boredom and add some variety to your workout, and a chance to soak up fresh air and sunshine (when weather allows).
Outdoor Running Tips
If you choose to take advantage of the changing seasons by taking your run outside, keep these important outdoor running tips in mind to stay safe and make the most out of your run.
- Running outside impacts your body differently than running on a treadmill. While treadmills offer a run in an environment that you are in control of, running outdoors means changing terrain, which will activate different muscles to assist you in adapting to a variety of road conditions. Some runners feel that running inside on a treadmill can be monotonous or boring, but running outdoors usually feels anything but. An outdoor run requires engaging your mind as well as your body: you must pay attention to your surroundings and stay in tune with your environment in order for your run to be safe and effective.
- While outdoor runs can be an opportunity to enjoy the sunshine and warmth, the weather is not always predictable or ideal for outdoor exercise. Many runners continue their routines outside even when it rains or temperatures are cool, but ultimately, safety should be your number one priority when deciding whether the conditions allow for a run. Heavy precipitation can lead to slick, slippery surfaces and low visibility. This is especially important to consider if your running route entails sharing the road with cars. Additionally, if the temperatures are particularly high or low, you should dress accordingly. Consider whether you will need to add or remove layers of clothing or don protective gear such as hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, or mittens to stay safe when temperatures are uncomfortably cool or warm.
- Another way to dress for success and ensure your safety while running outdoors is to wear bright or reflective colors to improve your visibility, particularly if you enjoy running in the evenings. You may have no issue seeing other runners or cars traveling the roads, but they are not always able to see you. Reflective vests, arm bands, and hats can make it easier for drivers to see you.
- Lastly, it is important to know your route when choosing an outdoor run. Avoid unfamiliar paths, trails, or roads, or any area that is not well-lit. If your run takes you down roads that you’ll be sharing with cars, be sure to stay on the left side of the road, running against traffic, so that you can keep an eye on drivers heading your way.
Although many runners prefer running outside for the additional benefits of fresh air and a change in scenery, it is, unfortunately, not always a safe option. Weather conditions can become hazardous and you may have to postpone your plans. However, having a treadmill in your home allows you the freedom to choose your running environment. Treadmills may offer a different experience, but ultimately can be a valuable part of your running routine. Whether your run takes you inside or out, remember to always stay safe – and enjoy!
Visit our showrooms in the Albany and Saratoga NY areas and find the right treadmill for you! Contact our fitness experts today! Albany (518-452-2727) or Saratoga Springs (518-587-7072).