runners... I'm trying to join your club...

and have a question - I've started running on the treadmill and am thinking about signing up for a race at some point, but am worried about how it translates to outdoor running. I rely pretty heavily on the treadmill to pace myself - will running feel more natural as I go or is transitioning to outdoor running going to be really hard to do? TIA!

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

Transitioning shouldn't be hard to do, but you should definitely ease into it. Maybe just do 1 mile your first time out. Try to stick to black top and avoid sidewalks. I love being outside and can zone out more than I can on the treadmill, so I find it more enjoyable. Races are a lot of fun, and addicting! Good luck!

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

When the weather is nice I actually like running outside more then the treadmill. And I find it easier because I go at my own pace without having to push buttons to speed up or slow down!

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

I meant to also write that when you start making the transition to outside running don't expect to do as much as you do on the treadmill at first. Also, try to pick a calm day, meaning not a lot of wind. The wind resistance is a big change between the 2 and if you pick a really windy day you'll definitely find it more difficult.

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

I recently transitionned to outdoor running and I found it MUCH harder. I can run 5 miles on the treadmill no problem. I ran outdoors for the first time about a week ago and I barely made a mile without having to stop. I felt it in my legs for 3 days afterwards. I rarely "feel" it after a treadmill run.

Although I'm finding it harder, I'm still continuing to run outdoors and build my endurance. It's a much better workout IMO. Plus, its a sense of accomplishment for me. But I will say that I was shocked at how much more difficult it was. I really thought based on how much I can run indoors that I'd easily be able to do 3 miles or so outside....I was so wrong!

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

Like you, I started running only on the treadmile, when i transitioned to outside it was very difficult and frusterating. any type of wind or incline was a change from the treadmile. I also found the weather had factored in. I would suggest beginning to run outside on a daily basis even if you can go as far at first. If you are going to do a race you definitely need to practice outside! Once you get used to it you will probably love it. I do now! I run outside in the snow and rain, this weather now is perfect! You will also probably feel like it is a better workout which will be an accomplishment, good luck!

Re: runners... I'm trying to join your club...

I've been using a slight incline - I hope that will help. Thanks for all the advice - I will try to make the switch sooner rather than later!