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Click to view andysprite's profile Amateur 18 posts since
Sep 22, 2007

Sep 24, 2007 10:22 AM

Treadmill vs. Track

I've been running on the treadmill for about 6 weeks now. I usually run at 1% incline at about 5 mph. Slow I know, but I'm trying to lose weight not be fast yet (and I might add that my short legs are moving pretty quick at that speed. lol). Last night I did my first run on the track. I averaged 6 mph and felt great. I was really surprised. I figured that the transition from indoors to outdoors would be harder. Has anyone else experienced this?
Click to view JG3's profile Amateur 14 posts since
Oct 25, 2007
1. Sep 24, 2007 11:06 AM in response to: andysprite
Re: Treadmill vs. Track
I always find it easier and faster ona track compared to any surface--especially a treadmill. RElated to the treadmill--I think the freedom of movement I get outside make a big difference for me.

Enjoy it.
Click to view Biophilia's profile Pro 171 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
3. Sep 24, 2007 1:12 PM in response to: andysprite
Re: Treadmill vs. Track
well, transition from treadmill to track is different than treadmill to outdoors. 1% incline makes up for wind resistance on a treadmill but not for "real" hills that you might find on the roads.
Click to view KSC083's profile Pro 62 posts since
Dec 14, 2007
4. Sep 24, 2007 7:19 PM in response to: andysprite
Re: Treadmill vs. Track
Another thing, the cooling effect you get from forward movement. Overheating slows you down, that forward momentum helps the sweat evaporate at a faster rate to keep you cooler. Unless it's much cooler inside, outside will usually keep you cooler- 75 degrees outside will feel cooler than 75 degrees inside. If the room is small and there are many other people running, you can also expect the humidity to be be higher insde which will make it feel even hotter.