Running Shoes for Treadmills – Complete Guide and Overview

When it gets dark outside, you automatically lose the desire to do outdoor sports – fortunately, you have the fitness center that has a treadmill you can use, but what footwear is best to use on a treadmill?

You can click on the shoes to read more about them, see where they can be purchased, etc.

• Asics DS Trainer
• Nike React Infinity Run
• Asics GT-2000
• Nike Joyride Run

Why just the 4 models of running shoes? Because all 4 models will in one way or another have a suitable effect for running on a treadmill. Below we have briefly outlined why and how for each model.

The best running shoes for treadmills

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41

• Advantages: Lightweight design, good shock absorption and a durable sole that works well on treadmills.
• Price: Approximately 1,000 DKK.

Adidas Ultraboost 5

• Pros: Great comfort, responsive Boost sole and extra cushioning for longer runs.
• Price: Approximately 1,400 DKK.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 26

• Benefits: Gel technology for maximum shock absorption and excellent support for both the heel and forefoot.
• Price: Approximately 1,200 DKK.

Saucony Endorphin Speed ​​4

• Advantages: Energy-returning sole and good stability for tempo and interval training on the treadmill.
• Price: Approximately 1,400 DKK.

What type of running shoes are good for treadmills?

Exercising on a treadmill can be good for you in many ways. Most importantly, a treadmill is softer than many other surfaces (asphalt, sidewalks, etc.) This means that you put less stress on your feet (and your running shoes, which means they can last longer). Below I will go over what you should pay attention to when choosing running shoes for the treadmill. You can, with a clear conscience, choose a different pair of running shoes than the ones you usually run in outside.

The treadmill is softer

As mentioned, the treadmill is softer than the surface that we Danes usually train on, which is asphalt, pavement, hard-packed gravel, etc.). This means that you can choose a pair of shoes with less shock absorption. Which also often means that the running shoe weighs less and feels light and nice to run in. If you want to try or learn to run differently, for example, the treadmill can be a good place to start. Read more in the next section. Another thing that many experiment with is, for example, running in Nike Free running shoes. For the simple reason that the treadmill is more pliable, and not as “hard” on your muscles. Perfect if you want to learn to run in Nike Free.

I have made an overview and guide to the best lightweight running shoes..

Get a better running style

Since the treadmill is easy to run on, softer than the asphalt outside and without unpleasant surprises, the treadmill will be a good place to try. to work on your running style. If you have been injured, the first place you are recommended to run is also on the treadmill, because it is easy and safe. Therefore, it will also be a good place to try to correct any bad habits.

If you switch from a heavier and more shock-absorbing running shoe to a lighter running shoe, you will quickly notice that the shock absorption and support are not the same as in your old running shoe. A lighter shoe will typically have thinner shock absorption, and it doesn’t matter when the treadmill also takes its share of the shock. At the same time, you will find that lighter running shoes will promote a more natural running further forward on the foot. If you usually run with a heel landing, it may be really sensible to try running with a midfoot and forefoot landing. The treadmill is again more pliant and good for your legs and muscles. And that may be very healthy, as a transition from “heel runner” to “midfoot or forefoot runner” can be really hard, especially for muscles and tendons. You cannot completely avoid the fact that patience still needs to be present. Because you don’t change your running style overnight.
It will definitely strengthen your running and make you a faster runner in the long run. Even outside the gym.

Be aware of this when testing your running style on the treadmill.

Should I change my running shoes?

You don’t necessarily need to change your running shoes when you start running more miles on the treadmill. But it can be a good idea, both to keep you on good terms with the center staff if your shoes are dirty and wet from your last run outside, and because you can typically get by with a more minimalist and lighter running shoes on the treadmill.

Good tips for running on a treadmill

A treadmill has a number of advantages. In addition to being easier when the weather turns bad and darkness falls early, you can also use some of the features found in the treadmill to get a more effective and good running workout. Personally, I find running on a treadmill a bit boring, but by using the methods below, I have been able to train effectively on a treadmill for long periods of time.

Tempo race

If you’re aiming for a specific race pace, or just want to push yourself to do a little better than last time, using a treadmill is the obvious choice. Here you can set the exact pace, always keep an eye on the clock, and teach your body to run efficiently and economically.

Use the slope

Make the most of the fact that you can make the treadmill incline and imitate running uphill. Hill running and hill training are one of the most effective ways to get your heart rate up and strengthen the muscles in your back. When you run uphill, you use your hamstrings and glutes more than when running on a flat surface.

Interval running on a treadmill

A bit like tempo runs on the treadmill. Interval training is effective, and it is both indoors and outdoors. Interval runs can be run by anyone, because basically it is not about the pace. Well, it is about changing the pace, that is, increasing from one pace to a higher pace. It is something that many people fear, but it is something that has an insane effect. And the treadmill is a perfect place to get acquainted with interval runs. You can always start out gently. Here you can read how to run 30-20-10 intervals. They fit the treadmill perfectly.

Vary your training

With the treadmill you have the opportunity to do very targeted and varied training. It is easy to switch between intervals, tempo runs, hill runs, recovery run etc. You should take advantage of this to vary your training. A varied running training gives the absolute best results and will certainly also help you keep your motivation high throughout the winter.

Become a better runner at the gym

Now that you have chosen a treadmill, and it is in the fitness center. Then you have a unique opportunity to become a better runner. Because you can do varied strength training in combination with your running. Here you can read more about Why strength training is good for running

End of running shoes for treadmills

To round off this article, it is not a must to buy running shoes specifically for the treadmill. However, it can be an advantage if you want to experiment with your running technique and try new training methods on the treadmill. I have reviewed a ton of running shoes,and collected them all in a list so you can find a review on exactly the running shoe you are looking for.

Do you have experience with running on a treadmill? What running shoes did you use? Share your experiences in the comments.