Different locations offer various surfaces to train on. As your body is always in contact with the ground, it’s important to learn more about different surfaces and their impact on training. So let’s scratch the surfaces and see what your best options are.
The training spot : Lost in the Wild
After a long day at work in front of a screen, fresh air is exactly what you need. Head outside for your workout and enjoy the many benefits of training outdoors. If you already have a training spot you regularly visit, the feeling of just being there will get you into beast mode before you even hit start. Cant find enough motivation yourself? Dont know where to go? Come train with us!
The surfaces: From asphalt to forest soil
The outside world offers a large variety of surfaces to train on. Before you choose one, find out how they affect your training, and what youll need for each one.
#1: Asphalt and concrete
Youre likely to find that almost all training grounds in cities and urban areas are made of concrete or asphalt. These are the hardest surfaces to perform workouts or to run on. So, good running shoes and a workout mat are essential to absorb the vibrations when you hit the ground and prevent injuries like shin splints.
#2: Tartan / rubber ground
Public stadiums have tracks made of tartan. This synthetic material is the right balance between soft and hard: it absorbs the vibrations and offers a better grip for you to increase your performances. To be more comfortable, you can even use shoes with track spikes. Another benefit: Distances are measured and indicated on running tracks, which makes them perfect for your running workouts and sprints.
#3: Parks
Parks are our favourite spot as they are a great way to connect with nature after a long week in the office. Soft grass absorbs the vibrations of high impact exercises, like jumps. But beware when wet, as it can be slippery and often hides holes, rocks and roots. Dont let this put you off though. Training on an uneven surface is good brain stimulation. It forces you to be careful and focus. In addition, a rough ground makes a large range of different muscles work to maintain your stability.
#4: Dusty trails
Roots, branches, puddles, rocks: In the wild you are always faced with various challenges Perfect!! Nothing is better for your endurance than having to run uphill and downhill. Mud and dirt are slippery, so make sure to wear shoes with a good grip and ankle support. Stay focused, keep to the track and just allow the wildness to sharpen your body and mind.
#5: The beach
The beach is either the most relaxing place to be, or the most challenging. Sand is undoubtedly the most uneven surface to run on. And when your feet sink in, it takes even more power and energy to take the next step. Running barefoot or with running shoes is up to you, but keep in mind that water is nearby and wet socks are not comfy. Either way, running on the beach is tough, but even more refreshing.
The training spot: Home sweet home
Ever thought of your flat or bedroom as a training area? Its about time you did. What could be more comfortable than your homeground? Youre unaffected by the weather, and since you dont have to go anywhere, you save time and energy. This makes it easier to just roll of out bed and do a quick workout in morning or last thing before you go to sleep if youve had a busy day. Another benefit: Fresh water, your kitchen and no one else to bother or distract you. Plus, you can play whichever track you like without having to worry about anyone elses taste in music.
The surfaces: Wooden floors, tiles, carpet
Since doing burpees on a hard floor is about as fun as it sounds, a workout mat is the best solution! Not only will it act as a cushion for your body during push ups and sit ups, it also gives you a better grip, so you dont slip while doing exercises like climbers.
So, what is the best surface? There is no perfect answer. Still, the key word is variety. Switching up your surface and training spot pushes you to use different muscles and therefore improves your adaptability and skills.
source : https://www.freeletics.com
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