Why is running outside a lot harder?

When you move through air you will invariably encounter something called air resistance.
The faster you move, the bigger the resistance.

If your sides ache ( stomach or liver ) it maybe the shoes you wear. The treadmill is usually cushioned > > > less impact on gut and knees.

Its funny I have the opposite problem I have always been an outside runner because of cross country and track, but I get a more tired when I run indoors or on a treadmill. Perhaps it is because our bodies have become attuned to a particular type of running. Because outside running and indoor running require different things, practice makes perfect, so perhaps we just need to practice. Winter is a tough time for me since I hate running in the cold so I will be spending more time inside on the treadmill. Wish me luck and by spring i hope you feel better about the outdoor running!

This happens to me too. I think it has to do with they way you run on a treadmill versus an actual track. A treadmill has the moving belt you run on that helps move you forward. But when you run outside you actually have to put all the force to propel yourself forward which causes you to get tired quicker.

Could be air quality. I used to run outdoors in a wooded area, then one day I tried it at a track in town, which happened to be near a highway. The pollution knocked any endurance right out of me.

Perhaps it has to do with the terrain. Treadmills are perfectly smooth with optimized traction, but terrain can vary immensely based on where you run. Your muscles have to compensate for uneven terrain, rockiness, slope, etc.

This is just a theory, though. Don’t take my word for it.

My bf wants me to workout with him when I visit. I feel that I will just slow him down and the other people (who are Army). I’ll feel like crap seeing everyone ahead and me way behind!

Air resistance, not comfortable with your own pace, constantly avoiding obstacles/people/traffic.

Running, in my experience is; Body/posture; Breathing (most important).
In the cold, you need to be focused and relaxed. Also be weary of dehydration, which happens a lot. It’s less noticeable because your body is used to physical signs like sweat and warmth. War gear that allows your body to move naturally without constricting your natural range of motion. When it’s cold, people cuddle their body and end up restricting their movements. Just run normally and comfortably, your body will adjust. Shoes don’t really matter in my experience, either.

I regularly run in 19 degree weather. As seasons change, it takes me a few days to adjust to the weather conditions.

kudos to you then, wow 19 degree weather? heck no for me! haha, when it gets warmer I’ll try running outside..

I find both outdoor and indoor running very different in terms of my performance and how I feel after. I a not sure if this is a psychological thing or not but I find that the momentum of the treadmill seems to carry me along more than outdoor running.