Ready to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement? Well, before you do, it’s important to consider the type of surface you’ll be running on. The wrong surface can cause all sorts of aches, pains, and long-term problems.

Earlier this month we celebrated International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (April 6th) and World Health Day (April 7th). So in the spirit of being proactive towards our health & sports, let’s tackle a question that I get asked all the time: “What’s the best surface to run on?”

The most common surface for running is pavement, found on most roads and sidewalks. While pavement is relatively stable for running, it’s also hard and can put a lot of pressure on your joints. Regularly running on pavement can increase your risk of joint pain or problems like arthritis.

Don’t forget to combine cardio with strength training!

An alternative to pavement is a tartan track, often used for running competitions. Tartan is a synthetic material that offers a softer surface than pavement, reducing the pressure on your joints. However, tartan can be expensive and may not be suitable for daily use.

Another type of surface often used for running is gravel or dirt. While these surfaces may seem more natural, they can be uneven and cause joint pain or injuries if the terrain is rough. Runners need to be extra careful when running on gravel or dirt, as they can be slippery and cause falls.

Treadmills are also popular for indoor running. While treadmills offer a soft surface that reduces joint pressure, they can also cause problems if runners aren’t paying attention to their posture and running technique. Treadmills can also be expensive to buy and maintain.

Lastly, some runners prefer softer surfaces like rubber tracks or foam flooring to reduce joint pressure. While these surfaces may be more comfortable, they can be costly and may not be available in all environments.

In summary, choosing the right surface for running is important to reduce joint pressure. Pavement is common but hard, while tartan is softer but expensive. Gravel or dirt can be uneven and slippery, and treadmills require proper technique. Rubber or foam surfaces are comfortable but costly.

It’s important for runners to choose a surface that suits their body and activity level.

So, what’s your preferred surface for running? Let me know in the comments!

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Valerie Orsoni
Your LeBootCamp Weight Loss & Wellness Coach
Creator of the eco-responsible brand LiliWarrior