Embracing Outdoor Running Over Treadmill Workouts
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Chapter 1 The Allure of Outdoor Running
Running is a passion of mine, yet my motivation dips when I lack a suitable environment.
Currently, I spend most of my time at university, but regardless of my location, I strive to maintain my stamina and strength. As a dancer in training, staying fit is crucial, but I've developed a growing aversion to exercising in my university town.
At home, I'm fortunate to live near a stunning park that boasts a charming café, an athletics track, a sports center, and a playground. This park has consistently been rated as the best in the UK, and I wholeheartedly agree with that assessment.
Whenever I get the chance, I run from my house around the park's perimeter, which conveniently measures almost exactly 5 kilometers—a perfect distance for me. Jogging through this beloved park allows me to enjoy beautiful scenery and encounter fellow runners who share friendly smiles as we pass. The experience makes me eagerly anticipate my runs when I'm at home, as it feels safe and welcoming.
In stark contrast, my university town, located five hours south of my hometown, feels very different. It's so small that I question whether it qualifies as a town, with little to offer residents. I struggle to understand why any young person would choose to live there unless they, too, are training at my university.
While it's true that one can run anywhere, having a scenic park makes a significant difference. In this unfamiliar area, I often feel vulnerable and exposed while running through neighborhoods where few others jog. My only option is to run along roads beside busy cars, which is far from serene.
Consequently, I've turned to the treadmill at my college gym. Although it's a practical solution for my safety concerns, I find it incredibly dull.
The treadmill is positioned in front of a mirror, forcing me to stare at my stationary reflection while I attempt to complete a 5k. Time seems to drag on a treadmill since I'm not actually going anywhere, and it can be a challenge to access the machines when the gym is crowded, often resulting in long waits.
My workouts are frequently interrupted by others who get in my way or take the equipment I want. However, I make do; my university gym is free for students, and while it's not always ideal, it's certainly better than shelling out for a gym membership elsewhere.
I've never attempted to run more than 5k on a treadmill because I find it so tedious. At home, I've tackled 12k, but doing so on a treadmill would require standing still for over an hour, all while others grow impatient waiting for their turn.
While I acknowledge that 5k is a solid distance for evaluating my cardiovascular fitness, I can't shake the feeling that I could push myself further. The treadmill doesn't provide the same challenge, and I rarely feel sore afterward, indicating that my muscles aren't being adequately challenged.
Sure, it's a decent way to maintain my stamina, but I'm uncertain if I'm genuinely improving. I eagerly anticipate returning home to run properly again, confident that’s when I will truly unlock my potential.
What are your thoughts? How does your experience with gym running compare to outdoor running? Which do you prefer? I’d love to hear your perspective! Thanks for reading!