7 Reasons Why You Can Run On A Treadmill But Not Outside

It’s a common issue that many individuals can run comfortably on a treadmill but struggle when running outside.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why you may be able to run on a treadmill but not outside and provide tips and strategies for improving your outdoor running abilities.

7 Reasons Why You May Be Able to Run on a Treadmill But Struggle to Run Outside

1. Terrain and Surface

Running on a treadmill provides a flat and consistent surface, whereas outdoor running involves varying terrain and surfaces, such as hills, uneven pavement, and grass.

To improve your outdoor running abilities, try running on different terrains and surfaces during your training.

This will help your body adapt to the changes and develop the necessary strength and stability to run outdoors.

2. Wind Resistance

Running outside means you have to deal with wind resistance, which can make it more challenging to maintain your pace and breathing.

To overcome this, try running into the wind on your way out and with the wind on your way back. This will help you build up your endurance and adjust to the wind resistance.

3. Temperature and Humidity

The temperature and humidity outside can also affect your running performance.

Running on a treadmill in a controlled environment can make it easier to maintain a consistent pace and body temperature.

To prepare for outdoor running, acclimate your body to the temperature and humidity by running at different times of the day and in different weather conditions.

4. Mental Mindset

Running outside can also be more mentally challenging than running on a treadmill.

To help overcome this, focus on your breathing, pacing, and form. You can also distract yourself by listening to music, a podcast, or running with a friend.

5. The Pace On Treadmill Is Constant

On a treadmill, you can maintain a consistent walking or running speed, whereas outside running requires adjusting to changing terrain and other conditions.

Although you can adjust your pace when running outside, on a treadmill, the machine controls the pace you must maintain, which can limit your ability to vary your workout.

While you can up and down the speed on a treadmill, the consistency of the machine’s pace may make it more difficult to challenge yourself and vary your running routine.

6. Treadmill Pushes You To Achieve Targets

Being competitive is in the human nature. When you run on a treadmill all the statistics are right in front of your eyes.

Stats like distance covered, speed of running, time on machine, calories burned, and many other things are right there on the screen.

They are a kind of motivation for you to achieve a certain target, and as a result you end up running more on a treadmill compared to running outside.

7. Focus Is Better On A Treadmill

When we run outside somehow the focus is divided. The moment you get a little tired, the brain starts telling you to stop because one of the basic functions of brain is to protect you against anything that it considers unsafe.

On the other hand, when you run on a treadmill, your focus is not divided, and it’s tunnel visioned on achieving the targets of that run. e.g. if you want to run a mile on treadmill, you will definitely run a mile even if you struggle to run a kilometer outside.

Some Other Running On A Treadmill And Running Outside Issues And Their Solution:

1. Is Treadmill Running Better Than Running Outside?

Both treadmill running and running outdoors have their pros and cons.

Treadmill running is better for those who are just starting out or are recovering from an injury, as it is low-impact.

Running outdoors can be great for improving speed and endurance, as it offers varying terrain and can present unique challenges, such as hills and wind resistance.

Check out our detailed comparison guide on treadmill vs running outside.

2. Running on a Treadmill vs. Outside: How Are They Different?

Running on a treadmill differs greatly from running outside.

Outside, you have to contend with uneven and challenging terrain, as well as wind resistance.

On a treadmill, however, you don’t have to worry about any of that. The treadmill belt ensures a consistent stride, and the machine regulates speed and incline for a tailored workout experience.