N
Gossip Blast Daily

Is it better to run outside or on a treadmill to lose weight?

Author

Amelia Brooks

Updated on March 24, 2026

Is it better to run outside or on a treadmill to lose weight?

Both options are good choices but it is all dependent on how fast you run. Some research suggests that an average person running at 8-10 kph outdoors will burn 5% more calories than a treadmill runner. For those who are capable of a bit more speed, over 10 kph, you may burn up to 10% more calories when you run outside.

Should I get a treadmill for winter?

The answer depends on your workout, the conditions outside, and your experience level with winter running. Finally, if you’ve got a really important workout, like a long run with segments at goal marathon pace, you might want to do it on the treadmill if the temperature is below freezing.

Is running outside in the winter bad for you?

When you run outside in the low temperatures, you breathe in cold air, which can be dangerous for your lungs. Cold air is bad for your lungs because it’s typically very dry, which can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and more.

Is it easier to run 5K on a treadmill?

Yes, because it’s generally easier to run on a treadmill than it is to run outside. To adjust for this factor, I always run at a 2% incline on a treadmill. Another thing that people usually don’t think about is that you are always running straight on a treadmill, so a 5K on a treadmill is always exactly 5K in distance.

Do you burn more calories running inside or outside?

If you’re simply jogging, you’ll burn approximately 3% more calories doing it outside than you would inside, but if you up your pace, you’re more likely to burn 7% more calories than you would on the treadmill.

What can you do instead of running in the winter?

Just choose forms of cross-training that are specific to running: cycling, pool running, and the elliptical are my three favorites. But since it’s winter, cross-country skiing is another great option. And don’t forget the strength work!

Is running in cold air bad for your lungs?

Exercising in very cold weather could harm lungs over time, researcher cautions. High-intensity running or ski racing below -15 C can cause irreparable lung damage, says exercise physiologist who recommends three ways to prevent it.

Does running in the cold strengthen your lungs?

While running in the cold can help your body get used to the colder climate, it won’t get your lungs in shape any faster than general training will. If you’re going to be running a race in colder temperatures, make sure you get outside to train a few times instead of consistently running indoors on a treadmill.

Is running outside harder than a treadmill?

There’s a reason that running outdoors can feel harder than running on a treadmill: It is. “When you run on hills or against the wind, you have to expend more energy to maintain the same pace,” says former NCAA distance coach and New York City-based running coach Sean Fortune.

Why do I run faster outside than on the treadmill?

Running on a treadmill is not physically the same as running outdoors. The way the treadmill belt propels you forward means you use less of your hamstring muscles. Your quads do most of your legwork instead, meaning you’re working them a bit harder than if you were outside.

Which is harder treadmill or running outside?

Running on the treadmill is easier than running outdoors, for a variety of reasons. One reason is that the treadmill belt assists leg turnover, making it easier to run faster. However, the treadmill can be a great training tool. Because treadmill running is easier, use it for speed work.

Why is running outside harder than treadmill?