Is it better to run on a track or concrete?
Melba Hoppe
2025-07-09 16:15:05
Count answers
: 16
If you find your ankles and knees sore after a run, an ache coming through your legs, or just general pain afterwards, one of the most common culprits is your running surface. Concrete is among the most readily available running surfaces, especially for city dwellers. However, concrete is about the hardest surface you can run on. Track is built for speed. The rubberised, slightly squishy surface provides the best terrain for speed training, though running in loops can get a bit boring. Grass is a lot softer than concrete, meaning your ankles, knees, and back have less shock to absorb. At the end of the day, it really depends on your preferences and training. If you’d like to decrease the shock to your joints or get more of a workout at a shorter distance, grass is better. If your body doesn’t mind the shock or you’d like to run on safer and more predictable terrain, concrete is better.
Kallie Kassulke
2025-06-29 07:35:05
Count answers
: 16
Concrete is the most easily available of running surfaces, but it puts the most strain on the body. Asphalt is slightly softer than concrete. Buying well-supported running shoes can help you deal with shock absorption that results from the repeated force at which your feet strike the hard surface. Distances are clearly marked, so tracks are perfect if working on a specific distance plan. It is also good all-weather material as it is made from synthetic materials. Running exclusively on hard surfaces is tough on joints and can lead to degeneration and arthritis. Trail running has significantly less impact on your bones and joints than running on concrete or asphalt. The best practice is to vary your surfaces and incorporate cross-training into your routine.
Read also
- How to keep your joints healthy while running?
- What is the best surface to walk on with bad knees?
- Is it better to run on pavement or gravel?
- How to run without damaging your knees?
- What is the best joint care for runners?
- Is running on concrete bad for joints?
- Does running in sand strengthen the knees?
- Is running on tarmac bad for your knees?
- What is the number one thing that makes bad knees worse?