Walking: The Great Outdoors vs. The Treadmill Showdown

Introduction

When it comes to walking for exercise, you have two popular options: hitting the great outdoors or stepping onto a treadmill. Both choices offer their own unique advantages and considerations. Personally, it’s outside for me every time – unless it’s cold and wet, then I will gladly jump on a treadmill! In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of walking outside and walking on a treadmill, helping you make an informed decision based on your preferences and circumstances. Let’s dive into this exciting face-off between the great outdoors and the trusty treadmill!

Walking Outside: Embrace Nature’s Playground

Pros of Walking Outside:

1. Scenic Pleasures: Walking outdoors allows you to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, whether it’s a serene park, a bustling city street, or a picturesque trail. The changing scenery can make your walks more enjoyable and stimulating, adding a sense of adventure to your exercise routine.
2. Fresh Air and Vitamin D: Outdoor walks expose you to fresh air, which can invigorate your senses and boost your mood. Additionally, sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, essential for bone health and overall well-being. Walking outside allows you to soak up these natural benefits.
3. Terrain Variety: Walking outdoors introduces you to diverse terrains, such as hills, slopes, and uneven surfaces. These natural variations challenge your muscles in different ways, leading to increased strength, coordination, and balance.
4. Social Opportunities: Walking outdoors provides opportunities for social interactions. You can join walking groups, invite friends or family to walk with you or strike up conversations with fellow walkers along your route. It’s a chance to connect with others while staying active.

Cons of Walking Outside:

1. Weather Woes: Outdoor walks are subject to weather conditions. Rain, snow, extreme heat, or cold temperatures can make walking uncomfortable or even unsafe. You may need to adjust your plans or invest in appropriate gear to ensure your comfort and safety in various weather situations.
2. Safety Concerns: Depending on your location, walking outside may present safety concerns, such as uneven pavements, traffic, or poorly lit areas. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially when walking alone.

Walking on a Treadmill: Convenience at Your Feet

Pros of Walking on a Treadmill:

1. Weather-Proof Workouts: Treadmills offer a climate-controlled environment, allowing you to walk regardless of the weather outside. You can maintain your exercise routine without worrying about rain, heat, or cold temperatures.
2. Control and Customisation: Treadmills provide control over your walking environment. You can adjust the speed, incline, and intensity to suit your fitness level and goals. This customisation allows you to challenge yourself and track your progress more effectively.
3. Joint-Friendly Cushioning: Treadmills often come equipped with cushioned decks that provide shock absorption. This feature can be beneficial for individuals with joint pain or those who prefer a lower-impact exercise option.
4. Entertainment Options: Many treadmills offer built-in entertainment features like TV screens, music players, or connectivity to streaming platforms. These distractions can make your workouts more enjoyable and help pass the time.

Cons of Walking on a Treadmill:

1. Monotonous Environment: The controlled environment of a treadmill lacks the ever-changing scenery and sensory experiences of walking outdoors. Some individuals may find it monotonous or less motivating over time.
2. Lack of Fresh Air and Vitamin D: Treadmill walking is typically done indoors, which means you miss out on the fresh air and natural sunlight that come with outdoor walks. Be mindful of this and seek alternative ways to get your vitamin D if you primarily use a treadmill.
3. Limited Terrain Variation: Treadmills offer a flat and consistent surface, limiting the variability of terrains compared to outdoor walks. While this can be advantageous for individuals with specific needs or preferences, it may not provide the same muscle challenges and coordination improvements as outdoor walking.

I have a range of blogs on this topic, I invite you to have a look if you are interested.

Beginners guide to starting your walking program.

Tips to improve your walking technique.

Consider the pros and cons of running Vs Walking.

Learn more about the many benefits of walking.

Conclusion

Both walking outside and walking on a treadmill have their own merits and drawbacks. Consider your personal preferences, safety concerns, and weather conditions when deciding which option suits you best. If you crave nature’s beauty, terrain variety, and social interactions, outdoor walks may be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you prioritise convenience, control, and year-round workouts, a treadmill might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the choice between walking outside and walking on a treadmill boils down to what motivates you, what fits into your lifestyle, and what brings you joy as you embark on your walking journey. Happy walking, wherever you choose to stride!

Take care, Helen

Helen Manders BSc (Hons) MCSP HCPC