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Name: Age: Date of Birth: Address:   City: State: Zipcode: Email: Phone: What's Your Question:

Question: I was wondering if running on a treadmill is as good as running out doors? I just started running, I walk alot. ~Diane

Answer: Diane, It's great to hear you've crossed over into running territory. Regarding treadmills, you'll want to try to vary the days you run on a treadmill and the days you run outside.  The treadmill is great when it comes to convenience, but training solely on a treadmill mile after mile can do a real number on your knees, shins and hips.  My suggestion is to limit your treadmill use to half of the number of days you're running in a week's time, and preferrably not two days in a row. You'll also want to modify the elevation (the incline) to alternate between hills and flat.  This helps to utilize different muscles and tendons in your legs so that you're not pounding on the exact same spots with each step. I hope this helps! ~Coach