Black Rice and Important Marathon Question #2

Remember how Billster and I decided that living on sour patch kids and frozen Costco burritos is probably not the best nutrition while we are training and how we should probably gobble down some more whole grains?  Well, we ventured out on a limb and have a new favorite form of whole grain that I am excited to share with you.

Billy is the best researcher in the world.  When he wants something or desires to learn something new he spends the time and effort to really figure out the BEST way to do it….unlike me, I just believe everything I see on my Facebook newsfeed or on an infomercial and call it fact.

Well, he got to researching about some of the best whole grains for runners and Black Rice is one of them.  (We make a bunch and then freeze it).

IMG 9805From an article in Runners World (here):

According to Scientists at Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, whole-grain black rice is CHOCK-FULL of anthocyanins, which are responsible for the grain’s deep purple hue.  “These are the same powerful antioxidants in blueberries and blackberries that have shown to offer protection from disease such as cancer and heart disease,” says sports dietician Tar Gidus, R.D.

Well, if an R.D. tells me to eat it and it is on runnersworld.com than you better believe I am going to make my salads look like a colony of black ants attacked it:) Now I just need to change my profile status on Facebook to share with all of my friends from Jr. High my new found love of black rice.

The black race tastes a little bit more grainy which Billy and I both really loved.

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I just layered the bottom of my salad with black rice, added some of my usual salad components (tuna rocks) and sprinkled it with more rice on top.  Lately I have been LOVING just using oil and vinegar as my dressing.  Fats CHECK, protein CHECK, whole grains CHECK, fruits and veggies CHECK.

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As you know I am just a little obsessed with my treadmill….just a little. Of course I would rather be out running around town but I am not one to run in the dark (the time of day I run) all by myself.

I trained for my first marathon completely on the treadmill (I don’t run in the snow) and had ZERO injuries throughout training.  It wasn’t until last spring when I switched up running 100% on the treadmill to 100% outside that I started getting injured.

I already know that I am going to use the treadmill for the next little while to build a good base of running again but wanted to know your opinion on the matter….

IMG 4067

Do you think treadmills are BETTER or WORSE on your joints/preventing injuries etc?

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Have you ever tried black rice?

Any meals that you are loving lately that includes ALL of the food groups (that you eat) all in one bowl/plate?

Tuna fan?

-Billy mixed his tuna with TJ’s peanut sauce and said it was really good….

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102 comments

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I trained for 2 marathons on a treadmill! I did my crazy long runs outside though, because I couldn’t handle the boredom….but now with ipads and stuff, I am sure it’d be so much easier to stave off that crazy itch to do something while running!

For the joints it is best to run on the roads, grass, or track, as they are not as jolting the body and joints as sidewalks are….but treadmills can be a nice add-in. Also, treadmills have a slight pull on the belt, so it is not exactly the same as outside. Adding a 1.0% incline is always great because it makes it more like outside (which is not a 0% incline….almost ever!)

I have never tried black rice, but I LOVE quinoa with stir fries. SO yumm and packed with protein, whole grains, and veggies :)

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I think treadmills are better overall for your joints (which will likely reduce injuries) because it is a much softer impact than conrete and/or asphalt. However, going from only running on a treadmill for a long time to running outdoors right away without working into it could potentially cause more injury because your body and joints aren’t used to the harder impact that running outdoors brings.

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So, so, so true! I primarily train on the treadmill, even for long runs, and when I go run a Half I’m so much more than I normally would be, thanks to the concrete.

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Both of these seem right on to me, I think the treadmill is a little bit softer than running outside. So when switching from treadmill to outside, probably need to ease into it a little bit. I don’t like running on the treadmill unless I’m forced due to weather and/or darkness. I like to run on trails outside too, try to do half runs on trails, half on pavement. That way my legs are ready for the full pavement running that doing a race brings.

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For me, I get lots of niggles when I’ve been running more on the treadmill. I pretty much exclusively run outside on trails and roads but in the winter when things are icy or snow covered I have to resort to my treadmill and my body doesn’t like it so much.

I’ve never tried black rice but now I will :)

LOVE tuna<3

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What are niggles?

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Little aches and pains.

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I definitely think that treadmills can be helpful in preventing injuries during training because they tend to lessen the impact. However, it’s still good to do some outdoor running pre-race to lessen the chance of injury DURING the race.

Quick Q: what type of treadmill do you have and are you happy with it? I’m interested in maybe buying used treadmill and have heard that so many inexpensive ones are great for walking but don’t stand up to running which of course makes it useless! :P

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Jenny,
I have the same treadmill as Janae – the NordicTrack C900 and I absolutely love it!

When it comes to injury prevention, I would assume that the treadmill is better. However, I didn’t end up injured until I started running on the TM more. I don’t really think there is a correlation though, just coincidence. I love that TM. She’s my bFF. :)

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Wow – yea that def. does look like ants crawling on your salad … yikes, brave girl :)

I’ve been inspired by your salad habits and have started eating a salad a day since I don’t like most other veggies. Salad, red pepper, carrots, seeds, egg sometimes, and craisins… maybe not as healthy and full of good-for-you stuff as yours but I’m getting there ;-) Def. will not be adding that rice tho lol, I’d have to eat it blind folded!

As far as I have heard and read, running on the treadmill is easier on your joints than running outside. That being said, my knees hurt more when I run on the treadmill than outside. I don’t know if I can really blame the treadmill or if its just accumulative pain from all the running we’ve been doing lately but my 4 miles at 1.5 incline on Monday hurt my knees way more than my 7 mile run outside on saturday and I’m still feeling the pain today.
I def. try to do more running outside in general but you need to do what is good for you and espec. what is good for your joints!

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Being from a colder climate I probably did 60-70% of my marathon training on the treadmill too. I used to try to be hard corr and run in the cold but last winter I decided against it and had a lot of quality time with the treadmill ;) I think it is good because there is less impact but I also think running outside is important. Maybe a mix of both :)
I love tuna, best with hummus and spinach on a wrap or bread and then grilled – oh and add cheese in there!

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I much prefer running outside but since I live in Florida and don’t want to a) die via running in the day or b) get hit by a truck, get raped or kidnapped at night, I think the treadmill is best for now.

I love tuna. I usually mix mine with hummus, avocado or olive oil mayo.

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I like the treadmill on occasion and I think it comes in handy when the weather is bad or you want to practice intervals. I also like that you can zone out and not fear being hit by a car!

I make Power Salads that have everything and then some in them!! Protein, whole grains, lots of varied nutrients, you name it!! They are my favorite go-to for a healthy dinner in a short amount of time.

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Love black rice! Or any rice actually :)

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Black rice? I have seriously never even heard of it! Sounds pretty good, actually.

When training for my previous race, I started out on the treadmill to build the ligament and muscles in my feet and legs. Once I felt stronger, I gradually switched my running to outdoors, and by the end of my training I was running completely outside. :)

I still can’t believe you ran a marathon one time on a treadmill! That’s amazing. You have incredible will power. Go YOU!

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where did you find the black rice?? I’ve been looking EVERYWHERE For it and not even Whole Foods has it! :-(

Treadmills are ok, I personally can’t stand them…but the best way to get injured is to quit the TM cold turkey and go 100% roads. or the other way around. You have to work the different surface in more gradually and let your body get used to it! I’d say that having a variety of surfaces (do TM sometimes, pavement sometimes, trails sometimes, the track sometimes) is the best way to stay injury freee :)

My favorite all-nutrient meal: a one-dish bake with tilapia, red potato cubes, zucchini, eggplant, asparagus, and tomato cooked in olive oil and white wine with oregano! : fats, proteins, carbs, veggies…tomatos are technically a fruit haha…ok well taters are not a whole grain BUT they are a good carb source for runners! But if I really want grains I have a grainy seedy dinner roll on the side too!

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I love running outside, and definately prefer it but since I live in a colder climate I am going to have to resort to treadmill running pretty soon but I get sooo bored running on a treadmill. Does anyone else have this problem? What are some good ways to beat treadmill boredom?!

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watch tv!

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I start to feel weird twinges when I run too much on the treadmill – especially in my shins and butt (piriformis). I run almost 100% of my miles outside during the summer and then 50/50 in the winter. I’m lucky living in DC and not having to deal with the snow too much.

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okay, i actually have tried black rice when i was at a restaraunt and it was the first time i’d ever seen it! i kinda looks a little purplish too…i liked it. :)

as for treadmill running, it’s funny because i’ve just been posting about this. i have been running only on the treadmill for months and months and i will agree that it is easier on the body and then less likely for injures. i’m just now transitioning to outdoor running and i’m hoping that little things don’t start creeping up! but since u have a history of injuries i second the motion of u still keeping treadmill running for some of those miles! :)

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I’ve never had black rice but I’m interested in giving it a try.. I’m really loving millet right now though :)

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well let’s see…when i was running 50 miles per week outside i ended up with a bad case of runner’s knee and multiple heels spurs (ouch). Now I run 50% outside and 50% on the treadmill and I have been injury free for over a year. I say do whatever works for you. I personally like to switch it up because the treadmill can get tedious, especially for long runs…but I also get bored running the same routes outside everyday.

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Treadmills 100%!!! I rarely run outside and am totally not used to hills (I live in South Florida). I ran outside when I went to visit my husband’s family in Ohio and have been battling an IT band issue ever since – that was a year ago!

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I’m more partial to my treadmill. I trained for my first marathon 90% of the time on the treadmill and only had minimal injuries that I could bounce back from in a week. Once I started training solely outside I started noticing more injuries although my speed had drastically improved. I vote for the treadmill, especially since I’m slowly building back up from a stress fracture.

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I’m all about treadmills. I had reconstructive ankle surgery last fall and treadmills are a lifesaver!

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I am so torn on the treadmill subject. I used to love the darned device and now I hate it. I do think that running on the treadmill is way easier than running outside. You can easily control your pace on the mill and outside you have to push your body acheive your pace. I definitely do think there is a lower risk of injury on the treamill. Hows that for an answer? ha ha sorry it makes no sense.

I love black rice!! YUMMY!

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I think it depends on what you are used to. I live in Erie, PA which is snowy and COLD during the winter – the ONLY option is treadmill running, but during the summer/fall months I am always running outside because I am sick of the treadmill. I went and ran on the treadmill the other week and it caused major leg pain because I landed differently when running on it. I think it is good to combine the two, but if you do one more than the other you just need to be careful not to over do it.

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I try to split it up. Turns out when the weather’s nice I run about 90% outside, 10% inside. And then I only run on the treadmill when I want to watch TV. However in the winter when it’s cold & snowy & unsafe I will be on the treadmill a lot more – probably most week days and save outside runs for the weekend when I can run smack dab in the middle of the day. I tend to get more achy when I’m on the treadmill more.

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I am not sure if they are better on your joints, but I do think that there is a huge advantage to a level service. I can always feel it when there is a sideways slope, and I hate feeling “uneven” when I run. But I get so bored on the treadmill, it’s sad…

I have! It’s great :)

I think that the soup recipe I posted today has all of them :)

YES. I love tuna.

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On a different note: We tried your Smores Bars for dessert tonight. Holy sugar overload! They were so yummy…but tiny pieces could only be eaten at a time.

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Really!! I am so happy you made them. Yes, I could only handle 1/3 of the pan at a time:)

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they were AMAZING i made it for football sunday and all the guys were raving :)

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I’m gonna check the bulk bins for black rice next time! I love tuna. My newest creation for an awesome, quick meal is a tuna melt. I mixed the tuna with hummus instead of mayo (I hate mayo!), then put it on a tortilla with cheese and tomatoes and broiled it for 3 or so minutes to make it melty & warm.

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I keep trying to like tuna, really…but the smell turns me off every time!

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I think your risk of injury depends on your treadmill. There’s a gym I go to sometimes that has these horrific treadmills that have no “give.” Like you feel like you’re slamming into a cement block with every step. My treadmill has shocks on it (I think yours is the same as mine), so it’s way better on my joints than the road. Trails are probably a step better.

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I started running on a treadmill but then I bought my house and didn’t have a treadmill to run on, so I moved to outside and that was 1 1/2 years ago and I have only run on a treadmill once since then. I LOVE running outside but I do not run in the super cold and rain…..enter my joining gold’s gym. So I will probably be running on treadmill more over the fall and winter seasons. I prefer running outside but if I can’t, then the treadmill is my best friend!

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I’ve never done serious miles on a TM, but I dont think that running injuries are caused by one factor alone. I think it’s easy to blame an injury on one factor, but really it’s a combo of many things such as running volume, diet, rest, stretching and other little variables.

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I am a huge fan of the treadmill! I have never gotten an injury from running on the treadmill–even when I run 20+ miles on it. Seems much easier on your body, in my opinion! ALSO–I just bought a treadmill and got it in the mail yesterday, same one as you and I am in L-O-V-E!!!

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I don’t mind the “dreadmill”! I actually really enjoy it cause I can catch up on all my trashy TV shows :P I’m totes a tuna fan, out of a can! I don’t like ahi tuna :/

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From personal experience, I’ve actually had more injuries in the past few years from running too much on the treadmill. I don’t like to run in the cold/snow either and when I trained for Boston a couple years back, I did 90% of my runs on the treadmill and got a stress fracture in my tibia. My orthopedic surgeon said even though it’s less impact on the treadmill, you’re continually pounding the same exact way since you aren’t, for example, turning corners or stepping over a rock in the road and this is just as bad on your joints & bones. Ever since then, I’ve limited my treadmill running substantially and haven’t been injured in 1.5 years!

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I’ve never even HEARD of black rice! Looks crazy! But thanks for sharing – it’s always fun to learn of new superfoods, especially for runners.

Tuna fan? Yes and no. Somedays it grosses me out. Other days it’s the only meat that sounds appetizing.

Hugs!

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Honestly, I am the same way as you. The minute I start running outside a lot, with all the hills (especially running DOWNHILL), I get injured. Gotta stick with what works! <3

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the last marathon (my first) i did primarily on the treadmill with a few runs outside. when i did my long 18 miler, my knee reallly began to hurt to the point where i could not run. this time i have been running more outside.. i was getting bored with the treadmill a little. however now my IT band is starting to hurt! maybe i should go to the treadmill but..i dont know. its been so nice lately!

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I had a terrible case of plantar fasciatis (sp?) in my left foot after my first half marathon a year ago. I had for the three years leading up to it, mainly been running on my treadmill during my kids’ afternoon nap. However, I started running outside more during training as the weather was nice. The plantar fasciatis definitely worsened while training outside and definitely improved rather dramatically post race when I went back to strictly running on my treadmill during the winter months. So I definitely think the treadmill is easier on the body, mine anyway!!!

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I have never heard of black rice but I am adding that to my list of things to try. I have tried a lot of things over the last two years I never thought I would like and it turns out I’m more open to new foods than I thought.

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I am no runner so can’t help in that department. I have never even heard of black rice. Interesting. Maybe if I start eating black rice it will somehow inspire me to start running. Hmmm…. :) Worth a shot!

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I would think treadmills would be better on your joints, no hard cement. I prefer a treadmill just because I can pass the time away by watching tv :) I used to eat so much rice and I am slacking in that department, I always opt for crunchy pita bread or crackers alongside my dinner. I LOVE tuna, can eat it straight out of the can with salt and pepper!

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I am a HUGE treadmill fan. I trained both on the treadmill and outside for my first half and came in at 1:46:53. Trained entirely on the treadmill for my second and came in at 1:41:34 despite more hills, a stretch of boardwalk, a stretch of grass, and a stretch of SAND! I think the ‘you shouldn’t train on treamills’ mentality is BS.

Every night I eat the following salad beast and it is completely perfect and satisfying every time:

– romaine and baby spinach base
– spicy roasted chickpeas (I coat them in sriracha and bake at 350 for 20 mins)
– cherry tomatoes
– cukes
– goat cheese
– shrimp or turkey slices or chicken sausage or whatever other protein I make for my boys
– honey dijon dressing

Amazers!

I used to LOVE tuna in my salad but I think I OD’d on it and we’re taking some time apart.

I haven’t tried black rice yet but I’m picking some up this week! I’m with you – if it’s in Runner’s World I am sold.

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I am anti treadmill for running (sorry Janae!!) because it makes me really really dizzy and I’ve fallen off of them multiple times, but with that said, I also live in a pretty mild climate where I can run outside year round so I don’t really need to use one. I definitely think they can prevent injuries because there’s less impact on your joints. Switching to outside from running on it 100% could also cause probs…but honestly running is running and you could push it too hard, even on the mill.

I need to find some black rice! I’ve never seen it here!

The last time I had tuna, I was in high school and it was in a Tuna Helper. Grosss :)

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Black rice is one of my all time favorites! It is healthy, delicious and adds a pop of color in my favorite “tride and true” recipes! Tuna is also awesome! I adore it, although I haven’t bought it recently. I lived off of the stuff in college though! (You can imagine how yummy my hall trash can smelled!)

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I’m more of a treadmill runner. When I was running regularly, I didn’t have any injuries. Although, for training purposes, I do understand the need to be able to run outdoors, to get used to the terrain. I would say for training purposes half and half. One thing I love about running on treadmill is that I don’t have an excuse not to run. Weather in Texas is really hot in the winters and too cold (for me) in the winters. So it gives me a good balance.

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You said “sour patch kids” and I ran to my pantry.
I do almost all my running outside. Whenever I have to run on the treadmill because of weather I always hurt so much more! I wonder if your body just gets used to one thing and has a hard time transitioning to the other…

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Never tried black rice – but saw that on runner’s world and need to!! LOVE tuna – my husband hates it – even the smell. I do 50% road & 50% treadmill. I LOVE tempo runs on the treadmill or even mile repeats because I am not constantly looking at my watch to make sue I am on pace & I am too stubborn to slow down – so I always stay with my pace. Love it for the restroom being close too :)

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I’m not sure about joints…but I can’t handle treadmill running. I did a lot of training for my full marathon in 2009 on the treadmill since we lived in an area that I didn’t feel great running at 4:30 or 5 in the morning by myself….but any run over 3 or 4 miles started to drag!! I think that if you make a slow transition from treadmill to road or a mixture, and stick to some soft surfaces (grass/gravel/etc) and ease into running on new surfaces (snow!!!) that you should be fine :) Definitely find what works for you though and stick with it, everyone – especially runners – are so different!

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i think they are better for the joints, as in, i’m less sore for less time when i do the ‘mill. i try to mix both road and treadmill, but its hard to say. i do a lot of cross-training, too, so is that tiring out my legs? or is it that i do sprints on the treadmill? or hills outside? who knows!
LOVE TUNA. its one of my favorite things ever.

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My knee injury happened when I started running outside… That’s all I have to say about that one :( Oof.

I’ve never tried black rice; in fact, this whole entry except for the question i thought you were talking about black beans haha.

SWEET TATERS. Fries. With syrup and ketchup. Are those food groups?

Love tuna but love salmon more!

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Ah I love black rice! I am definitely going to have to make some and freeze it too. That salad looks amazing…

Running outside hurts me so I usually stick to the treadmill :-)

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That is so weird…I HATE the treadmill. Legitimately. If I work out inside, it’ll be on a bike, stairmaster, elliptical, even rowing machine. When I do get on a treadmill, 90% of the time I just walk with the incline all the way up. I cannot stand running on one!

I would rather run outside! I know roads are hard on the joints, but I’ve never had a problem with it. My favorite is, of course, trails in parks and things, but a road gets the job done :)

I would venture a guess that your injuries had more to do with over-training than anything else. Maybe being on roads vs. treadmill contributed, but I don’t think it would be the main factor. Also (and I know this is risky) I LOVE running at night/early morning in SAFE, well-lit areas with cars driving by. It’s so zen and peaceful!

And finally, running on a treadmill is easier in general. It pulls your feet for you a tiny bit.

It’s so weird how preferences differ like that!

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Side-note: so weird that you posted earlier about the Ironman documentary on hulu because I watched it last night! ChrissieWellington=boss.

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we LOVE black rice in my family! a lot of the time we will mix it in equal parts brown/black.
We get the best looks from guests when we make homemade sushi with black rice- hilarious and yummy!

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I run outside as soon as I can (usually in March) and run through usually early November. Then it’s the treadmill during the winter months. I think running outside is better conditioning for your body. I just use the treadmill when it’s too cold or snowy outside for me. And I find it boring as hell, too.

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I am pretty anti treadmill. But my thought is your form is different on a treadmill then outside (if you watch someone on a treadmill and on the road it will be different) so if you are pretty high mileage and you 100% switch over from one way to the other you are asking for an injury. It depends on the surface you are running on outside and your treadmill which is kinder on the joints. Most likely the treadmill is better as a road would be pretty harsh and if you are running on the side of a road you are running at an angle since the road curves. But a nice soft trail allows your natural form and a soft surface for the joints.

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I love the treadmill and have NEVER gotten injured on it. Like you, I trained for my first marathon on a treadmill for the most part. When it started getting nice out, a month before my race I took my runs outside and got injured!! Not good.

Love black rice! Tuna (or any fish), not so much!!

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Treadmills are softer than cement therefore there is less impact. I have had a number of stress fractures and did all my recovery on a treadmill per my coach’s advice in college. I would work up to nearly 30 miles a week on the treadmill before slowly moving one run a week outside. Even now I am conscious of making sure as much of my runs are on dirt roads (less impact) as possible. The only tricky thing about training for a race on a treadmill is that it is quite a bit different that running outside in my opinion but considering your past you seem to train fine on it and get awesome PRs! So, while coming back from injury on a treadmill was definitely the best choice for me we are all different! Good Luck!!!!

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I didn’t even know black rice existed until I read this. Thanks for sharing! I want to try it. I think treadmills are definitely a softer surface than the road, and they don’t have the slant that a lot of roads do which can cause shin splints. I’ve never really thought about treadmill vs. road from an injury standpoint, just a boredom standpoint, and outside running always wins for me when it comes to a more entertaining run.

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You’re getting me totally curious on the black rice. But I HATEEE tuna.

I’ve had good luck with treadmill training, but I like to mix and match. When the weather’s nice. Not a snow fan either.

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I love running on the treadmill for a number of reasons. I like to know how far I’ve run and the exact time I’ve run. I can be lazy and set my pace and I just keep up with the treadmill. I can entertain myself by not only music but by people watching (I make up lifestories about the random people I see at the gym) and watching t.v. I like to trick my way into pumping out the miles!! Friends of mine are appalled that I love the treadmill so much but I love exact facts and I don’t have a garmin. I would say I’m OCD but I can’t stand that the letters are not in alphabetical order!!

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Treadmills actually hurt my joints due to increased impact (two bodies colliding).

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I will admit that I like the treadmill, and often prefer it to running outside. Long runs are particularly successful for me because I can’t stop unless I hit the stop button, I can teach my body to find comfort in my pace, I have water/refuel, and there is a bathroom near by. For speed workouts I like outside because I can push my body to it’s limits, not just hit a button to increase a speed. As far as injuries and all of that I am always worried that running outside might cause my to injure myself. Most of it is probably in my head but I am comfortable doing what I know is safe. The only real downside I’ve noticed is that any massage therapist that has worked on my since I started running asks me if I run on the treadmill. Apparently I can thank the treadmill for my crazy tight hip flexors since I am continuously running the same repetitive motion for hours on end.

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i love black rice but dont cook it that much because i dont have rice cooker. if they make minute black rice then i would have it all the time….thankfully there is at least minute brown rice

i think treadmills are great; i usually go about 50/50 on running outside and running on the treadmill….unless the weather is too much for my picky self, then i’ll go for the treadmill to avoid the crazy weather

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I actually find that I get more injured on treadmills. I always have sore shins after anything more than 5 miles on a treadmill, though that’s not to say that I’m not also perpetually injured when I run outside. Guess it’s kind of a toss up…

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I don’t have much experience but I train most of my short runs on the treadmill but do all of my long runs outside. I think it’s a good balance.
I’ve never tried black rice but you make it look so good I’ll have to put that on my list.
I hate fish but I love canned tuna – not fresh. Weird, right?

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I don’t know what all the commenting about “I live in a colder place so I have to run on a treadmill” is for. I trained outside in ALASKA all freakin’ winter. We’re talking four solid months of zero to negative 45 degrees. You never HAVE to run on a treadmill, guys!! Running on the crunchy snow is awesome.

I think if you’re training for a road race, you should be getting your legs used to the pavement. Save the treadmill training for when you’re running your treadmill races. :) But if you’re afraid of running alone after dark, the TM once in awhile is okay.

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I don’t have access to a treadmill anymore, so I run completely outdoors. I do think the treadmill prevents injuries because it has some give. I know that if I run on sidewalks, I get shin splints pretty bad so I try to run on the road. That helps a lot!

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Ohh yumm, I didn’t realise you can freeze rice- that will surely be convenient :)! I find Mexican to be such an easy cuisine to get all the food groups in one shot: brown rice/tortillas/taco shells as you carb, taco mince/fajita chicken as your protein, avocado/guacamole as your fats, and Greek yogurt as your dairy….Just call me KhushBOO-YA! :)

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Running on a treadmill allows softer impact so can be better for your joints. The issue arises when you then try to run outside and your body has not acclimated to the forces it will feel from concrete/cement. Just because you have run 13 miles on the treadmill doesn’t mean your body is ready to handle 13 outside. If you want to do most of you training on a treadmill I would definitely also build up my outdoor runs and not just jump into longer distances outside.

Also, treadmill running is a tad different than outdoor running. With the motorized belt the ground is essentially moving underneath you which only requires you so stay in one place to not fall off and doesn’t require forward propulsion from your glutes as much as outdoor running. This can be combated with a bit of an incline but not completely negated.

Good luck with your training!

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Treadmills are hard on the body, particularly hips. I once read that if you use a 1% incline it helps to better align your body and also better simulates the resistance you get from outdoor running.

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I actually think treadmills can be better because pounding on the concrete really puts a damper on your joints. Running outside can be awesome though and it’s really just about being smart about it. I don’t want to run in the 97 degree weather + humidity or in the dark so I run on the treadmill a lot! Once it gets cooler I will run outside but I think the treadmill is perfectly fine :D
I haven’t yet but I will definitely need to try black rice!! Those nutritional benefits are awesome!
I love making huge salads with every vegetable and cottage cheese. Perfect meal in my book. I used to eat tuna religiously but my grandma told me I should only eat it about once a week because of the magnesium?

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For me personally, I prefer running outside because I’ve gotten more injuries when using treadmills/tracks too much (mostly during this past winter when it was too cold and icy to run outside)… that is why this winter I am just going to ease up on running a lot and focus on all my other training first, and just run from time to time. Then, once Korea thaws out in March, I can start easing back into my mileage.
:)

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Last winter I did the majority of my marathon training on the treadmill and like you had no injuries and had good performances. I think both indoor and outdoor running have their positive points so in the end I would do what works best for you.

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I’m a fan of the treadmill. I think it is easier on the joints. I’ll try to do a lot of my runs on the mill but still running outside every now and then. I can definitely feel the impact difference on my knees though.

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I love tuna! I have never tried black rice before but you have inspired me to do so!

I spent a lot of time on the treadmill while training for a marathon I ran this past May. I did a few longs runs (due to bad weather) and lots of hill & speed work. I ended up with a PR by 16 minutes and a BQ by 11 minutes.

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i have never tried black rice before, but it certaintly looks interesting!

Honestly, I tend to split my time between the treadmill and running on the road. I definitely always do my long runs on the road, i just dont have the mental capacity to run that long on the treadmill, but I think it helps to have that kind of balance. I guess different strokes work for different folks, because there are definitely high mileage people out there that do all their training on the roads and are ok. i dunno if im considered “high mileage” persay, but I know if you are coming back from injury or very used to being on the treadmill, its probably best to transition slowly into road running.

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Oh man, I don’t know how you guys do it. I hate the treadmilll. I even bought these ridiculous contraptions to wear on my sneakers so I could run in the snow!

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I know that black rice is probably amazing for my body, but I can honestly say I will have a hard time eating it simply because of the appearance.

We have a FreeMotion treadmill and I can 100% say that it is WAY easier on my body and joints than outdoor running. You have so much control and the deck is very bouncy and cushioning.

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I have heard a lot of my marathon buddies talk about black rice – I really need to find a local place to get it. Not an easy to find grain.

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I’ve never even heard of black rice! I will have to look into finding some. I like the grainy taste too :)
Oh, and about the treadmill issue- I have heard so much debate on BOTH sides. My chiropractor HATES HATES HATES the treadmill. She is like you HAVE to get off of that- it is SO bad for you. (but right now I have to run on it…due to Crohn’s issues) But then on the other hand I hear that the treadmill is better for your joints. I really have NO idea….I swear it changes all of the time.
Oh & I was watching that video yesterday of the Iron Man (that you linked on here) & it was SO inspirational!! Those people are AMAZING..and SO SO SO strong!! Thank you for sharing it :)

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I definitely prefer running outside mentally, and I feel like it’s important that you have some outdoor mileage in training for a marathon – BUT I think the treadmill is definitely better overall for your joints. And so much easier to do speedwork and hills. You don’t have to find a hill, you make one :)

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Ooh, I love black rice and I love tuna! Wild rice is black rice, right?! I’m confused! If it is wild rice then it is my favourite-est rice ever, lol! :-P
Hmm…treadmills, treadmills, treadmills… *thoughtful pause*
I used to have one that I loved and used every morning and then somthing went very very very wrong and it began alternating suddenly reaching extreme speeds (not commanded, out of its own will) and then stopping dead in its tracks. It became very very scary to run on and I really haven’t used one since, lol! :-P
I just discovered the elliptical and arc trainer as fun replacement and have moved my allegence ;-) Love treadmill running though, I find it kind to my knees <3 xyx

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I have super mixed feelings about the treadmill. I use it primarily in the winter for speedwork (hard to do that with ice, and a track under several feet of snow). Otherwise, everything is outside. We had a week of rain recently, and after soaking 2 pairs of shoes, I took the dry ones inside for a run.

I found I have a lot of little pains when I treadmill run. I started setting it at 1.0 when I do speedwork, to have it not simulate downhill running. I dunno. I pretty much hate it.

I ran in a blizzard last year. I saw another guy I see every morning (yay, 2 of us!) and got a honk from the plow driver. Come hell or high water, I am getting outside!

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Thanks for posting about black rice! I will have to try it with my salads.

Treadmills, I think, are good for preventing injury but it just really love running outside. I live 1.5 blocks from the bay and less than a mile from the ocean that running by water is hard to beat!

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I can not stand running any amount of a longer distance on a treamill but my experience is limited. However, I am great at jumping to conclusions…so my assumption would be that a treadmill is designed to lessen the impact so that would definitely benefit a runner. Also, with a treadmill everything is more consistent (pace, elevation, etc) so the external factors are limited. Again, just my assumption!

I think I’m definitely going to try out black rice!

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I need to try that black rice! I need more variety in my life when it comes to what I eat!
I’ve heard mixed reviews about which is better – treadmill or outdoor running… I really think it depends on the person. Do what you like and your body will be happy:)
Tuna – YES

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I think treadmills can be good in moderation. I think that running on them constantly you don’t get the kind of variety in footing that you would get outside & can build up & certain muscles & neglect others with over-use of the treadmill. So that when you get outside, you’re having to use some muscles that you may not have used all that time on the treadmill, which could lead to injury. I’m no expert though, that’s just my take. I like to try to run on different surfaces for this reason…. kinda like you don’t want to just run in one direction on an indoor track all the time, not good.

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I say you should go with what you know to be best for you. Me? I hate the treadmill. There is no way in this world I could train for a marathon on a tread mill. I can barely handle 5 miles on one!

Never heard of black rice- I am going to have to check it out! Is Billy going to run a marathon?

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I have never even heard if black rice, but I like brown rice and if tanning has taught me anything, it’s that darker is better… So I’m all over that!

I think tread running is probably better on the joints… But it’s just really hard/boring to do miles on it. Plus, I find it harder to get a legit workout (speed, hills) on it… Plus, no wind resistance… I think that might make a bit of difference. Still, if that’s what’s available I don’t think it’s a bad option… Coach told us about one of his athletes who was a mom, so she did all her training for the marathon on the tread and still got a sub 2:40 time. Not bad!

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I’ve never even heard of black rice! Cool. I really want to try it because I am a huge rice fan.

I’ve been training a ton more on a tread for two reasons: 1. The island I live on is super humid and hot, even at 7 a.m. and I don’t always feel super safe or sure of where I am ’round here, and 2. My quad and hip have been acting up, and I feel like the assurance of “flat” running on a tread, instead of the huge hills all around me, are better for it. I don’t know though, I worry the tread doesn’t give me as good of a workout as running outside…I hope it does!

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i like eating black rice, yummy.
haha, at first, the salad look like ants had invaded it.
:)

Lily

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I was running on the treadmill all winter long this past year (too cold to run outside in the winter in MN) and ended up with a stress fracture in my foot. Since I have recovered from my stress fracture, I have been running outside (Yay! Summer) and have had no problems. (I just finished my 1st half marathon in 1:39!!!) I have tight feeling hips but that’s because I need to stretch out more. I think part of my problem was that I was running high mileage in my Nike Frees. Mind you, I LOVE my Free’s (I feel so FREE!) but they are not good for long distance. I switched up to some Nike Lunarglides and my feet feel so comfy! I think it’s the type of shoes that we wear that cause stress fractures. I’m running about as many miles now as I did pre-stress fracture. So, I’m thinking that neither the treadmill nor running outside would be cause of the problems….

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I am a treadmill junkie all the way, but there is just something about running outside that gives you an entirely different mental aspect to running. You have to TELL yourself to run faster, you can’t just get lost in the treadmill going at the same speed. And there’s no quitting once you’re 8 miles out…. where as on the treadmill all it takes it to punch stop…

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Did you know September is Whole Grains Month??! Who knew?!
http://www.wholegrainscouncil.org/get-involved/celebrate-whole-grains-month-in-september

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Ahhhhh that is awesome! Thanks so much!

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