slugshooter Posted October 15, 2008 Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 Since I have started trying to get myself back in some sort of shape for my PAT with the Florida Hwy Patrol in a couple weeks, I was wondering what you guys thought was better for running purposes. A treadmill, or running on a track. I have somewhat avoided treadmills mainly because I didn't see a way you could get anything out of it because well, it operates on its own power, versus having to propel yourself across the ground, and also because you weren't really going anywhere. With kids in the house though, I can't really leave them in the house to run through the neighborhood, so I am on the treadmill that Kari's parents didn't use so they gave it to us. I am definitely getting a workout, but are the benefits the same like I would get running on a track or through the neighborhood. I am definitely winded when I get done. I have come to like the treadmill more though, since I don't have to worry about getting hit by a car, and down here in Central Florida it is still getting somewhat warm outside. Also, if I am running outside, with no concept of time or speed, I find it easy to when I get a little winded, to slow down, or just go to a walk, whereas on the treadmill, it is a consistent speed, and you also know how far you are going and your time. What do you guys think? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stevebeilgard Posted October 15, 2008 Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 as a cop, you will have very limited chances of chasing a bad guy down a treadmill. lol. i like the natural thing. just go jogging and get it done. treadmills are for wimps....lol Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeramie Posted October 15, 2008 Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 I way more prefer the track. Treadmills are boring, loud, and uncomfortable. If they are all you have fine, otherwise my feet hit street..... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nativetexan Posted October 15, 2008 Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 Running on a treadmill will get you the results you want. However, running outdoors will give you the results you need. For what you are training for, I would definitely go the cross country route and run in the woods. It will prepare your body for obstacles while running. Plus, it's easier on the feet. Run in the shoes or boots you might wear while in uniform, or what you plan to wear to the academy so they are broken in. If you really want to push it, carry a backpack with some weight in it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unioncountyslayer Posted October 15, 2008 Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 Marc, do whatever you can. The key is getting your heart in shape, and training it at a certain rate. Although I prefer to run outdoors, a treadmill will still give your heart, and body the workout it needs to prepare for your test. I do some personal training, and have clients that have bad knees, or are embarassed to run where people can see them, and a treadmill is a better fit, and has shown results. I have a 55 year old lady that I train, that has lost 50 lbs since January, from walking, now running on a treadmill. She does 5 miles a day, which is more than I can even say for myself. Best of luck bud! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
slugshooter Posted October 15, 2008 Author Report Share Posted October 15, 2008 Right now I am concerned with just passing the PAT. I have a mini obstacle course set up in the back yard for some parts of the test to practice on. As far as getting prepared for the academy, once this is over and I know where I stand, then I will train more for endurance. I did however find a good place to run as far as a track goes. There is a football field behind a church,that is across the street from where I lived in high school. The park itself is a public park, as well as the track, although the field itself is used by the private high school that the church uses. Once this test is over, I will go out there as much as I can and run there. Thanks for the input guys!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tominator Posted October 16, 2008 Report Share Posted October 16, 2008 I've been doing both regularly since March. The real rode is best IMHO. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rookieee Posted October 16, 2008 Report Share Posted October 16, 2008 track all the way,much better for your knees and ankles Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.