Is Running on a Treadmill the Same as Outdoors?

Tricia Hayton, Registered Physiotherapist
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As the days grow longer and warmer, many people switch from running on a treadmill to running outside.  I have been asked many times, "How does this change my training?"  "What are the differences between treadmill and outdoor running?". 

The pictogram below was featured on the CASEM website and shows some of the differences:
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To sum it up, it is easier to run on a treadmill physiologically. Be prepared to decrease the intensity of your run slightly when you head outdoors.   This can be done by either shortening the run slightly or moving just a little slower.   Your body will adapt to the changes, but you need to give it a little time. 

Remember, in the winter when you move back indoors and onto the treadmill,   adjusting the incline of the treadmill by 1% will negate these changes and you will run smoothly in the future.