Fitness Digest

Which Is Better Cardio Inside or Outside?

One question I get asked all the time is whether running outdoors is better than running indoors. Sure, a treadmill is more convenient and it’s certainly nicer on a chilly morning, but is it any better or worse than simply hitting the bricks? The answer to this is fairly surprising.

There isn’t a big difference between running indoors and running outdoors. That said, there are small differences that you might want to keep in mind.

1. Running in Nature Can Help Your Balance - when you run outdoors you’re going to encounter a lot of different terrain, which is going to mean that your body must make small adjustments as you move. You may have to jump over obstacles or run up and down hills or between trees. All of these little movements are working smaller muscle fibers used for balance that are rarely used.The other benefit of this uneven terrain is that you are generally going to burn more calories as you adjust your intensity to your environment.
2. Get Some Fresh Air - I know it might seem a little corny, but running outside means you’re going to be getting more fresh air. This won’t change you’re life drastically, but it’s a nice benefit. You’re able to take a breather, relieve some stress and get away from the beeping of a cell phone or your email.
3. Healthy Dose of Vitamin D - Vitamin D plays a significant role in preventing cancer and cardiovascular disease and you’re going to be getting a big dose of it every time you go running in direct sunlight. Exposing yourself to direct sunshine has also been shown to lighten depression and increase your mood.

There are, I’m sure, some people reading this (no you of course) who are just bound and determined never to leave their treadmill behind.I can understand wanting to remain inside where it’s comfortable and you can see the TV, but you’re missing something wonderful by not being outside. I know no one wants to get outside when the weather is extreme, which is why I always recommend having a treadmill for the rainy or chilly mornings, but doing cardio outdoors when you can will take your overall fitness to a level you’ve never been before.

This is just a tidbit, if you’re looking for an in depth program to help you run for fat loss I recommend checking out Run to Lose Weight: The Ultimate Guide.