Some Questions...

Hi Everybody,

I am 13 months out, 10 lbs below goal weight, and have been running for a while now (already completed 2 5Ks, long run goal is a marathon-- maybe NYC or Boston in 2012).

I have been a regular treadmill person, but I want to add some variety by taking it outside.  I really liked running the 5Ks outside-- was more intense than the treadmill. I have been told that because of the terrain, etc. you should begin with shorter distances when you start running outside because it will be a tougher workout at first.  Is that true?  Any suggestions for the making the transition as smoothly as possible?

Also, does anyone have any advice for exercises to do before plastics?  I would really like to strengthen my abs before I have the operation.

Thanks a lot!  Seeing how you guys stay in shape is a HUGE inspiration to me!!

Most folks on this board know that I generally train on a TM, and have since I first started running over six years ago.  I do quite a few races and don't see much difference.  I would go ahead and try with the distances you usually do.  You might notice your hips and knees feel the pounding a little more, but if you're already in decent shape, I don't see where you'll have any trouble. 

Linn

Congrats on your work so far man!!

I LOOOOOOVE running outside...once you make the leap to outside running, you'll dread the treadmill!!    I think it takes more effort to run outside and is a way better workout, but in a good way. It may take a bit more effort right off the bat and it might be a bit more stress on your joints & body, but it's totally worth it.

Welcome to the boards, this is an awesome group of people here!! 

outside running gives you more mental stimulation, which makes it easier.

it's the weather, traffic, and uneven surfaces that give you the challenge.  :)  Go for a nice easy 2 mile run to feel it out.  Keep going if you feel like more.  There's no trick.

Just take care to plan for extra hot or humid weather, as that really can poop you out.  I think most of us on this board aim to run early morning or later in the evening to avoid the real harsh daytime temps of the summer.

Thanks for the advice.  I did a 4.5 mile run to try things out and it was great. I did not feel sore but I could tell that my muscles were working more because of the uneven surfaces, inclines and declines. I kept at a slow pace, though, so things might be different when I go full-out.  

It was a nice change of pace-- and since it is so hot I sweated up a storm, much more than I do in the gym!

I think I will most likely stick to the treadmill because I can do it year round, but as for the summer and fall I am going to get outside and enjoy some of this great weather.

Thanks again-- this board ROCKS!

 For me its night and day treadmill versus outside running, although by me its very hilly outside and on the tm I usually keep it level.  I can do a 6 mile run on the tm and feel terrific the next day ready to hit it again, but a 6 mile run outdoors on the hills and I usually need at least a day to recover. Course that's just me.  Typically I run at about a 7 min mile pace on the tm, but I can't usually come close to that on the roads.  

I suppose the answer for me would be to try and train more realistically on the TM, like adding more incline.