Running is the only sport that can be done anywhere, on any surface. The key is finding a route and a terrain you are happy running on, and provides you with the best workout possible. Show For those new to running, you may find tarmac too much of a shock to your body. It has no give to it, and the relentless beating down with your feet can lead to injury that no amount of shoe cushioning can compensate for.
Running on softer ground is kinder to your joints, but is harder work, requiring greater effort, which your body may not be able to give straight away. The solution is to try out a variety and see what suits you best, and what is accessible to you so that you can realistically fit it into your schedule. The other benefit of running on different surfaces is that some are more effective than others when it comes to burning calories. The tougher the terrain, the more your muscles and bodywork, resulting in a greater calorie burn. Read our guide to the different surfaces available to you as a runner, and see which ones suit you and your circumstances. Even better, go and try them out for yourself!
(Image credit: Thinkstock Photos) 1. TreadmillPros:
Cons:
Perfect for those winter months and when you’re first starting out. You can vary the pace and incline, so this is the beginner’s dream piece of equipment. 2. TrailPros:
Cons:
Great for a run filled with a variety of ground like gravel, wood chippings and sand. Many trails found in woodlands have marked out routes so you can run in a safe environment.
(Image credit: Future) 3. GrassPros:
Cons:
A good running surface when kept short and flat, but watch out for any hidden holes that could sprain an ankle. Well-kept grass, such as a golf course or football field, will be in top condition, but be careful on longer grassland, as this can hide hazards.
(Image credit: Thinkstock) 4. SandPros:
Cons:
A hard workout, but soft on your joints – perfect for runners who want to work harder or recovering from an injury. Choose from deep soft sand for a calf workout, or wet flatter sand. (Image credit: Future) 5. ConcretePros:
Cons:
The most easily available of running surfaces, but it does put the most strain on the body. Buying well-supported trainers can help with shock absorption.
(Image credit: Future) 6. TracksPros:
Cons:
Distances are clearly marked, so tracks are perfect if working on a specific distance plan. It is also good all-weather material, as it is made from synthetic materials.
Which surface is best for running?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.
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.
What are the disadvantages of running on road?Road Running – Cons. very hard surface which can increase impact for those with poor tissue quality, arthritis history or who are recovering from injury.. consistent surface stresses same tissue regions.. street traffic (cars/bikes/pedestrians). tripping obstacles (cracks in road, altered surface, poor quality). Is it better to run on a flat surface?Conclusion: If you can find a flat, even stretch of it, grass is the best training surface for most runners, especially as you get older.
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