What To Know
- For example, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that running on a treadmill at a given speed required more energy expenditure than running at the same speed outdoors.
- While treadmill running may be more challenging in some ways, there are also factors that can make it easier to achieve a PB on a treadmill.
- However, it’s important to understand the factors that influence treadmill running and to consider the pros and cons of using them as a measure of running performance.
The debate over whether treadmill PBs count as legitimate running achievements has been raging for years. While some runners argue that treadmill running is easier than outdoor running, others maintain that it’s just as challenging. So, does treadmill PB count? Let’s dive into the evidence and explore the factors that influence this complex question.
Is Treadmill Running Easier?
One of the main arguments against treadmill PBs is that treadmill running is easier than outdoor running. This is often attributed to the lack of wind resistance and the consistent surface of the treadmill. However, research has shown that treadmill running can actually be more challenging than outdoor running in certain ways.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that running on a treadmill at a given speed required more energy expenditure than running at the same speed outdoors. This is because the treadmill belt provides no resistance, so runners must work harder to maintain their pace.
Factors Influencing Treadmill PBs
While treadmill running may be more challenging in some ways, there are also factors that can make it easier to achieve a PB on a treadmill. These include:
- Controlled environment: A treadmill allows you to run in a controlled environment, free from the elements and other distractions.
- Consistent surface: The treadmill’s consistent surface provides a more stable and predictable running experience, which can help you maintain a faster pace.
- Pace control: Treadmills allow you to set a specific pace, which can help you pace yourself more effectively and avoid overexertion.
Pros and Cons of Treadmill PBs
Despite the factors that influence treadmill PBs, there are both pros and cons to considering them as legitimate running achievements:
Pros:
- Treadmill PBs can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
- They can be used to track progress and compare performance over time.
- They can be a good way to prepare for outdoor races, especially in inclement weather.
Cons:
- Treadmill PBs may not be as accurate as outdoor PBs due to the lack of wind resistance.
- They can be less challenging than outdoor running, which may limit their value as a training tool.
- They may not be recognized by all running organizations or events.
What the Experts Say
The debate over treadmill PBs has also drawn the attention of running experts. Here’s what some of them have to say:
- Dr. Jordan Metzl, sports medicine physician: “Treadmill PBs can be a good way to track progress and stay motivated, but they’re not as accurate as outdoor PBs.”
- Jeff Galloway, running coach: “Treadmill PBs can be a valuable training tool, but they should not be considered equivalent to outdoor PBs.”
- Kara Goucher, Olympic marathoner: “Treadmill PBs can be a great way to stay fit and train, but they’re not the same as running outdoors.”
The Bottom Line: Treadmill PBs – A Valuable Tool
Ultimately, whether or not treadmill PBs count is a matter of personal opinion. However, it’s important to understand the factors that influence treadmill running and to consider the pros and cons of using them as a measure of running performance. Treadmill PBs can be a valuable tool for motivation, training, and progress tracking, but they should not be considered equivalent to outdoor PBs.
Popular Questions
1. Are treadmill PBs recognized by running organizations?
Some running organizations recognize treadmill PBs, while others do not. It’s important to check with the specific organization to determine their policy.
2. Can I use treadmill PBs to qualify for races?
Some races allow runners to qualify using treadmill PBs, while others do not. Again, it’s important to check with the race organizer to determine their policy.
3. How can I make treadmill running more challenging?
There are several ways to make treadmill running more challenging, including:
- Increasing the incline
- Increasing the speed
- Using interval training
