by An activity as simple as walking has the power to transform your well-being and ignite your fitness journey. But where are you walking? Outdoors, in a park or at your gym, on a treadmill? Let’s dive into the intriguing debate between walking outdoors vs. on a treadmill and learn about the unique advantages each option brings to the table.
Benefits of walking either outdoors or on a treadmill
Health Shots spoke with fitness professional Vikas Sharma, he told us about the benefits that walking can have for our health.
1. Health and cardiovascular resistance
“Both walking outside and treadmills can improve cardiovascular health and endurance,” says Sharma. Walking regularly, regardless of the environment, helps strengthen the heart, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. By maintaining a consistent walking routine, whether outdoors or on a treadmill, you can improve your cardiovascular fitness and overall stamina.
2. Lung health and respiratory benefits
Walking, especially outdoors, helps improve lung capacity and function. Sharma explains that walking outside exposes you to a variety of air quality and natural elements, which can promote deeper breathing and increased oxygen intake. However, treadmill walking can also offer respiratory benefits, since indoor environments are often well ventilated and equipped with air circulation systems.
3. Hormonal balance and general well-being
Walking, regardless of the environment, helps regulate the hormonal balance in the body. “It stimulates the release of endorphins, known as ‘feel-good’ hormones, which can improve your mood, reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms of depression,” says the fitness expert. Whether you choose to walk outside or on a treadmill, this physical activity can contribute to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Also read: Do you like to walk? Try the retro walk to improve the health of the body and mind
What burns more calories, walking outside or on a treadmill?
The main difference between the two is the external factors that can affect your training. When walking outdoors, you may encounter uneven terrain, wind resistance, and elevation changes, which can increase the intensity of your workout and potentially burn more calories compared to walking on a treadmill. flat. On the other hand, on a treadmill you can adjust the speed, incline, and monitor your heart rate, which makes it easy to maintain a certain level of intensity for a long period of time. Some treadmills also offer preset training programs that can help increase calorie burn.
Ultimately, if you walk at the same speed and intensity on both a treadmill and outdoors, the difference in calorie burn may not be significant. However, if you encounter challenging outdoor conditions or choose to walk at different speeds and inclines, walking outdoors may result in a slightly higher calorie expenditure.
Walking outdoors vs treadmill: Which is better?
In the debate between walking outdoors and using a treadmill, the answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences, circumstances, and goals. “Walking outdoors offers the benefits of fresh air, natural surroundings, and a sense of freedom, while walking on a treadmill provides comfort, controlled environments, and year-round accessibility,” says Sharma.
Walking outdoors provides a refreshing change of scenery and allows you to connect with nature, which is rejuvenating to the mind and body. Walking in the fresh air offers a feeling of freedom, reduces stress levels and improves mood.
Treadmills offer comfort and flexibility, especially for those with time constraints or unfavorable weather conditions. With a treadmill, you can walk no matter what time of day or season. It provides a controlled environment where you can easily monitor your speed, distance, and other training metrics. Treadmills also allow you to adjust the incline and intensity, providing options for interval training and challenging workouts.
Also read: Why choosing the right walking shoes is crucial for your health
So whether you decide to lace up your shoes for an invigorating walk in the fresh air or jump on a treadmill in the comfort of your home or gym, the key is to keep moving and let your body smile with the many benefits of walking. contributes to your health. and wellness!
