Running is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health, help you maintain a healthy weight, and provide an outlet for stress. To a large extent, indoor running benefits are just as much as they’re present in an outdoor setting. For example, it’s easier to stay motivated during exercise when you don’t have as many distractions from nature around you. But if you want to get serious about your runs and train longer distances, you’ll want to learn how to run correctly.
You might be surprised at the number of people who don’t know indoor running benefit and how to run correctly — even if they’ve been doing it for years. If you’re running in a way that feels like a lot of effort, there’s probably something wrong with your form. Running should feel light and easy. A proper running form will help you run faster and farther and prevent injury.
- Start strong. Try a dynamic warm-up to get your muscles moving when you’re warming up. Start with a brisk walk for 5 minutes, then pick up the pace for 30 seconds before slowing it down again. Repeat that sequence about five times.
- Don’t lean forward or back. Keeping your body upright will allow you to take deeper breaths and minimize the strain on your body overall. Instead of leaning from your waist, contract your abs, so they support you as you run.
- Let gravity work in your favor. If you loosen your grip on your arms, they will naturally swing up in front of you as you run; this helps propel you forward. Keep them bent at 90-degree angles and relaxed. Don’t clench them or hold them too close to your body.
- As a rule of thumb, try to land midfoot. It should be almost noiseless when your feet hit the ground — no big clomps or thuds. Keep your shoulders loose and relaxed, not hunched and tight. Keep your eyes about 10 feet in front of you rather than looking at the ground.
Can I Run Indoors?
There are several indoor running benefits, but first and foremost, it’s always accessible. You don’t have to worry about the weather or look at the clock to figure out whether it’s a good time to go outside. Running outside is great, but you might spend more time getting ready to run than actually running if you’re not in your own house. Plus, all that time spent planning and strategizing for your outdoor runs could be better spent doing something else. When you run indoors, you can simply put on your workout clothes and hit the treadmill when you want without wasting time preparing for all kinds of scenarios.
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You Can Run At Your Own Pace
If you’re running outside with others, running at your own pace can be challenging. This can be problematic if you’re a newer runner or training for a race at a specific rate. Everyone can set their own speed and go at their own pace when you run indoors without slowing down fellow runners. If you’re looking for variety, treadmills allow you to control the incline and speed. This makes your workout more exciting and challenging. Running outside doesn’t give as much flexibility as indoor running benefits because the terrain is less controllable. Many runners end up sticking mainly to flat surfaces and paths instead of exploring different terrains like trails or hills.
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Favourable Weather Condition
The most apparent indoor running benefit is that it helps avoid inclement weather If it’s too hot, cold, raining or snowing outside, you can still get your run-in on the treadmill and stay dry and comfortable. You can also start your run immediately—no waiting for the temperature to warm up or cool down or the rain to stop. In addition, if you’re short on time and don’t have time for a commute before or after your run, the treadmill lets you fit your workout into your busy schedule since all you have to do is leave home and head straight for the gym.
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It’s Less Impactful On Your Joints
Whether you choose to run outdoors or indoors, running is an impact exercise that puts pressure on your joints. Running outdoors poses more of an issue because of the uneven surfaces we run on, such as gravel, dirt and concrete sidewalks. If you’re going to run on pavement, indoor tracks are much easier on your joints than outdoor pavement because they’re built with a cushioned surface that helps absorb some of the impact from each stride you take.
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You Can Focus On Your Form
Many people focus on their form by running in front of a mirror, but that’s not necessary. You can simply be aware of your posture and how your arms swing from side to side as you run. Remember that running is all about maintaining control while trying to move as fast as possible. Hence, it’s essential to make sure your joints are aligned correctly and that your muscles are working together.
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Gives You Privacy
Another indoor running benefit is perfect for introverts. You don’t need to worry about people spotting you if you’re looking for privacy. This could be a big deal for you if you’re an avid runner. Some people also prefer running directly in front of a TV or movie because they can watch their favorite show or distract themselves with something else while they run.
The Final Word
Indoor running benefits are several. It is like a time machine back to your childhood—it’s where the nostalgia of the track meets, P.E., and gym class comes alive. It also provides a fun way to escape the weather or watch your favorite T.V. show without missing a moment of it as you run along with it. Finally, if you’re just looking to get out and run for some fresh air but don’t want to brave the elements, treadmills are just about as close as you’ll get!
Remember that anything worth doing is worth doing correctly, so don’t rush into running too quickly. Start out at a comfortable pace, and don’t forget to take a small walk break every mile or so. But everyone is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. The best thing you can do is try both options and find out where you feel most comfortable.