did you choose the right running track
As we all know, running is a sport that is 'easy to start, but hard to master.' Many people think that just wearing a pair of well-fitting shoes makes them a 'runner,' but that's not the case. Running is a sport full of knowledge: what gear to wear in different environments, what level of runner is suitable for which terrain—these are all important considerations. Some friends think these are trivial details, saying, 'Isn't it the same wherever you run?' Absolutely not! Today, the editor will give you an overview of different running terrains!
Beginner Running Track—Rubber Track
The rubber track is the first choice for beginner runners and student runners. Looking at the regular circular track, there's always a feeling of sprinting for the 800-meter physical exam in college.
The advantages of a rubber track are very obvious. First, it is convenient for calculating distance. No other venue has such precise distances as a rubber track. Running one lap from the starting point is exactly 400 meters, which is very useful for beginner runners. You can clearly calculate your pace, making it convenient for beginner running training. Secondly, the rubber track is moderately soft and hard, causing less wear on the knees compared to other running surfaces. Thirdly, the rubber track is relatively safe. Unlike running on asphalt roads, where you need to avoid people and vehicles, you can freely wear headphones and immerse yourself in your running world.
However, the rubber track also has its drawbacks. Based on the editor's experience, the biggest disadvantage of the rubber track is the monotonous scenery, which can easily make people feel bored. Additionally, continuous running in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction can cause fatigue on one side of the body, potentially leading to injuries over time. Furthermore, the perfect condition of the rubber track can affect your performance in competitions. We all know that even marathons involve running on asphalt roads, bridges, and other terrains. Long-term training on a rubber track can make it difficult to adapt to different environments during actual races.
The Most Convenient Running Track—Asphalt Road
Compared to the rubber track mentioned above, the asphalt road is the most convenient choice for runners. Whether you are a white-collar worker just off work or a middle-aged runner far from school, the asphalt road is the most convenient choice. Put on your running shoes, wear your headphones, and you can start running as soon as you step out of your house. It's incredibly convenient.
Compared to the rubber track, the biggest advantage of the asphalt road is that it closely resembles the terrain of marathons or other races. Regularly running on asphalt roads makes it easier to adapt to the conditions during competitions. Moreover, the changing scenery along the road makes the entire running journey less boring.
However, the disadvantages of asphalt roads are also very obvious. Asphalt roads are not professional tracks, and the hardness of the surface is not ideal for running. Long-term running on asphalt roads can cause significant wear on the knees and make the running process relatively tiring. Additionally, there are safety concerns. Whether it's day or night, the traffic on the road poses a risk to runners. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the volume of your headphones at a level where you can hear the honking of vehicles and be mindful of pedestrians to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Artistic Running Track—Green Grass
Running on grass is probably the dream of most artistic youth. Blue sky, white clouds, a running boy in white, and a heart full of dreams—doesn't it form a beautiful picture in your mind?
The biggest advantage of running on grass is that the soft surface puts less pressure on the joints. The slightly uneven terrain helps train your body's coordination. Moreover, the green grass makes runners feel happy and relaxed, providing an excellent running experience.
However, the disadvantages of running on grass are also obvious. The biggest challenge is finding a large enough grassy area to run freely. Living in a city surrounded by concrete, such 'paradise' running spots are hard to find. Additionally, grassy areas require good weather. Once it rains, the green grass turns into a 'muddy swamp,' making it difficult to even walk through, let alone run. Furthermore, grassy areas often have uneven spots, and running mechanically at a set pace can lead to sprained ankles and injuries.
Indoor Running Track—Treadmill
The choice of most white-collar runners! Whether you are at home, at work, or in the gym, you can run on a treadmill without any external interference. Wear your headphones and immerse yourself in your own speed world! You can control the speed and incline as you wish. If you have a fitness coach nearby, you can also get professional advice on running posture and injury prevention. After running, you can have a session with fitness equipment, and continuous, appropriate strength training will make your running more efficient!
But why do many professional runners refuse to train on treadmills? The most important reason is that treadmills differ from roads. The cushioning and the belt's backward force on a treadmill reduce the 'push-off' action in running, which can affect your running posture over time and make it difficult to adapt to road running during actual races. Additionally, running on a treadmill can be quite boring!
These are the common running terrains in daily life summarized by the editor. Each running terrain has its pros and cons, and runners should choose based on their own situation. No matter where we run, we are happy!
Title: Running Terrains: Which One Suits You?