How to Make Jogging on a Treadmill More Like Outside

Jogging on a treadmill is a great alternative to outside jogging for people who don't live where the weather is good year-round. However, there are two major differences between treadmill jogging and outdoor jogging. Aesthetically, treadmill jogging is simply less enjoyable than jogging outdoors in good weather. Physically, running on a treadmill uses different muscle groups than running outdoors.

Instructions

Getting That Outdoors Feel

1. Consider listening to audiobooks or positioning your treadmill where you can watch television or look out a window. It's not the same as watching the trees and people flow by, but it's better than nothing.

2. Position your treadmill in direct sunlight when you can, or even move it outside if you have a space protected from the weather. If you run at a gym, try to select the treadmill closest to a window.

3. Open your windows and/or doors while getting your workout on the treadmill.

Training for Outdoors

1. Set the angle for a climb of at least 10 percent to compensate for the fact that running on a treadmill doesn't work the hamstrings as much as running outdoors.

2. Set up your run to include various levels of difficulty throughout your run instead of programming a flat difficulty level. Many models include a "hill" setting that simulates running uphill.

3. Do a few weight exercises (such as leg extensions) that strengthen the muscles around the knees. Running outdoors includes running downhill, which can be difficult and hard on the knees. Very few treadmill models have a decline setting that accurately simulates running downhill.