Running indoors has its pros. For example, you get to catch up on your favorite series or movie, watch your kids, or multitask with another activity. However, running outdoors happens to bear more fruits. For example, the different terrains challenge your workout, making your leg muscles work more. There are various forms of running for the outdoors that you can consider. The two most common ones are trail and road running. But which is the best? In this read, we will compare trail running vs. road running.
There are so many reasons that make most people hate running outside. It could be because of the harsh weather, potholes, or insecurity. Nevertheless, fitness gurus reveal that there is something special about running outside.
But why is it important? Well, these gurus reveal that, first, running outside gives you a better-rounded workout (4). The argument is that when running outside, you change terrains, which gives your leg muscles an added workout (4).
Secondly, you get to run downhill. You may not run downhill with some treadmills, which means you are not engaging some of your muscle groups like the quadriceps. Additionally, WebMD reveals that you also get to run side to side (4). Running side to side has been linked with neuromuscular control and balance (4).
The other benefits that are associated with running outdoors include (4):
Read More: Trail Running For Beginners: 9 Tips To Make Offroad Running Work For You
There are several differences between the two. To better understand them, we will look at the differences under several aspects or in various sections. Take a look:
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Weight loss entails you burning more calories than you are consuming. Fitness gurus acknowledge that you burn more calories when you start an exercise like running. However, the debate is the effectiveness of calorie-burning when comparing trail vs. road running.
Both activities help you burn calories. However, trail running is more effective in weight loss because it increases your calorie burn up to 10% than road running (5). Even so, remember to maintain or adopt other habits that promote weight loss, for example, eating low-calorie foods, practicing portion control, and mindful eating.
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As we have seen above, both of these activities have an injury risk. On top of that, there are specific dangers of taking part in any of the two. Trail running has its dangers, and they range from getting lost, being unprepared, twisting an ankle, running out of supplies like water, falling, or experiencing painful and bloody blisters.
You cannot run with a painful blister or twisted ankle because it only doubles the pain. Similarly, if you run out of water, you increase the risk of being dehydrated. Contrary to what you think, dehydration can be life-threatening if it is severe.
Medline Plus suggests you get medical help if you experience the following symptoms (1):
On the other hand, road running has also been associated with several dangers. The most severe one is accidents, and there are endless causes of accidents when road running. They range from running on a busy highway, not paying attention to the road, or running with traffic.
After going through the differences between these two running activities, you may want to give one a try. It is an excellent idea because it will help you attain your fitness goals. However, be sure to talk to your doctor and trainer before starting either activity. Similarly, we urge you to go through these life-saving yet straightforward tips on safe trail and road running:
Nothing tops your safety when you are trail or road running. So, be very cautious when you are performing any of these activities. Also, when trail running, be sure to maintain a steady pace that allows you to watch the terrain.
Similarly, watch out for rocks, roots, branches, and other objects that may injure you when running. The same safety measure applies when road running. Watch out for cars, especially if you are running on a busy highway– neither running towards or against traffic is safe.
Again, as much as you want to listen to music, make sure that you are not consumed by the music that you forget you are running. You must be alert, whether on the road or a trail, to avoid accidents.
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Be sure to wear the correct gear depending on the activity that you want to perform. For example, there are specific shoes for trail and road running, respectively. They have been designed to prevent you from blisters and for better traction on the terrain. Likewise, wear loose-fitting clothing and remember to tie your laces to avoid tripping and injuring yourself.
Unfortunately, today’s boom is that you have to follow what celebrities or famous fitness gurus are doing for it to count. For example, if they prefer running on a treadmill, society views treadmill running as the best of all running programs.
Such information overload, most of which happens to be misconceptions, can discourage a prospective trail or road runner. This is why you are advised to talk to your doctor first before giving in to different routines because of the hype.
Generally, when starting a running routine, you are advised to work with what you have and start where you are (3). You do not have to buy a treadmill machine for your running routine to bear fruits, instead, you can begin by road running.
Experts suggest you be kind to yourself and avoid breaking your back to fit someone else’s definition of perfect (3). If road running is part of your routine, then so be it. It is an excellent calorie-burning activity and let no one tell you otherwise for performing it (3).
Over the years, a lot has been said about both road and trail running. As a result, you will find many non-runners claiming trail running is unsafe, road running leads to accidents, or running is meant for pros. Such beliefs intimidate and discourage prospective runners who then choose not to start such programs based on these intimidations.
This is one of the many barriers that prospective runners have had to break before giving either road or trail running a shot. However, according to NBC News, running is not for anyone specific, so you should not feel bad about not following a running routine (3).
It is all in your mind, and once you learn how to control your thinking, you realize that you can do almost anything, regardless of what people say. So, give it a shot!
Road and trail running are some excellent running routines to undertake for fitness and weight loss. However, when comparing trail running vs. road running, you realize that each has pros and cons. Be sure to talk to your doctor and trainer before you try out any of these activities. Additionally, remember to apply the tips we shared to make your running routine more efficient. Good luck!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for decision-making. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!