Skip to content
Show
What is the Best and Worst Surface for Running On?You’re likely to train on a whole variety of surfaces during your running career. Concrete, grass and sand are just a few examples of the types of surfaces you’ll probably encounter, but are you aware of how each can affect your body? In this guide we’ve explained some of the pros and cons of the most common running surfaces to give you an insight into the effect they can have. GrassPros
Cons
Synthetic TrackPros
Cons
TreadmillPros
Cons
Asphalt (Road)Pros
Cons
See more: Shin Splints – Everything You Need to Know About Shin Splints SandPros
Cons
Concrete (Pavement)Pros
Cons
Woodland/Mountain TrailsPros
Cons
All surfaces have benefits and drawbacks for your running training, so it’s difficult to categorically state that one is superior to the others. Personal preference and what you have available will largely influence where you take your runs, but we recommend switching things up every now and again to keep your workouts fresh and exciting. Remember that our virtual challenges can be completed anywhere! It doesn’t matter if you run on a treadmill, on grass or on a track, as long as you complete the miles before the end of the month you’ll receive your rewards! Find out more or sign-up today! See more: How to Prepare for a Running Race – Race Tips & Advice See more: Running Tips for Beginners Related PostsKeep Up To Date© Copyright Race At Your Pace Ltd. Company No. 11164014. All rights reserved. VAT Number 286 3443 79. Website designed by Squarebird. Apple and Apple Logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. Page load linkWhat are the worst surfaces to run on?Unfortunately, concrete sidewalks are the hardest surface around to run on, closely followed by asphalt.
What is the best type of surface to run on?Grass has to be the best option as it provides a nice balance of a soft surface that is easy on your bones and joints and one that also provides you with more of a workout since you don't bounce right back up like you do when running on harder surfaces.
What is the fastest surface to run on?Pros: As all road-runners know, asphalt is one of the fastest surfaces you can find, it's easy to measure distances on it, and it's simple to keep up a steady rhythm. While it's rather solid, it's a predictable, even surface that puts less strain on the Achilles tendon than softer or uneven terrains.
Is it better to run on hard or soft surface?Foot-contact time on soft surfaces has been recorded at over three times as long as it is on hard surfaces. But while harder surfaces provide faster times, they are also a faster route to impact stress and overuse injuries. Which surface you run on depends on what you're trying to accomplish.
|