Hard Or Soft Surface: Which Is More Suitable For Beginner Runners?

Beginning with a new schedule, like in the case of running, is pretty tough and takes a lot of determination. You need to make up your mind, make a schedule, plan your day, and buy the best running shoes.

There can be a couple of things on your mind. However, a good question for most beginners and is the kind of surface should you choose for yourself when you are just starting to run.

The answer is not definite. It mostly depends on your preferences. Nonetheless, there are some advantages and disadvantages to both. Also, keep in mind that the kind of shoewear you choose for your run has a significant impact on your experience of running. 

Make sure you have good running shoes, to begin with. For now, here is your answer to the kind of surface you should go for. 
 

How Good Is The Soft Surface For A Beginning Runner?

Soft surfaces feel really good because they have minimal impact on your feet. 

Advantages Of Running On A Soft Surface

You feel better, and so do your feet. The soft surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt feel easier to run on. You can even run barefoot on the grass. However, do not be mistaken. Any soft surface still requires your muscles to put the same amount of effort as any other hard surface. You just like it better because the surface feels nice. 

Any soft surface even makes you mentally delighted. Running on grass or sand can also help calm your nerves, especially if you do it barefoot. Running has great benefits when it comes to your mental health. So, if you choose to run, that too on a natural surface, would bring your great relief from stress. 

And, If you want to avoid injuries like Achilles tendonitis, back pain, and bad knees, then you should definitely go for the soft surfaces. These will reduce weight, but will also give you a healthy push at the start of your running career.

Disadvantages Of Running On A Soft Surface 

On the other hand, the chances of acquiring a foot injury on any given soft surface are the same as on a hard surface. Most people might twist their ankles on a soft, or irregular surface. Wet surfaces are another problem because you can easily slip. For instance, if you choose to run on wet grass, you can put extra strain on your muscles and roll your ankle joint. 

Another good surface is snow. You may already know that snow is very slippery and high-risk. However, if you are cautious then you can have a good time jogging slowly and carefully. 

How Good Is The Hard Surface For A Beginning Runner?

Hard surfaces are just another challenge that is harder to run on. 

Advantages Of Running On A Hard Surface

The most common surface people run on is asphalt. It is a plain, yet hard surface that requires you to put minimal attention when running. It is marvelous for a tempo run where you can simply go with the flow. Nothing hard.

Do remember to choose a running shoe that provides maximum cushioning to keep your feet comfortable and to keep yourself from turning an ankle. 

You can also choose another hard surface, which is the terrains. There is, however, one great challenge with running on terrains. It also requires you to put your mental efforts. You can’t aimlessly run on terrains. There are turns and irregular surfaces that require you to stay focused when running so that you do not injure yourself. 

A great running shoe that has excellent flexibility would help you on terrains. Such shoes are easier to run with because they absorb all the shock and prevent an injury. 

Disadvantages Of Running On A Hard Surface

Hard surfaces and bad shoewear are just not the right combos. It is a combo of a disaster and many injuries. If you are an overweight woman with outdated running shoes, then you should never start from a hard surface. It will increase issues and give you a bad back. 

Hard surfaces put extreme pressure on your muscles. Your calf muscles and your tendons have to work hard to keep you going. However, it comes with a downside. You can strain your muscles, and the imbalance from irregular surfaces can injure your Achilles tendon, as well. 

Final Word

The choice of the type of surface you want to run on is for you to make. As a matter of fact, you can also try running on grass to test the capacity of your feet at first.  Whatever you think is more feasible and comfortable for you will enhance your experience in running. However, make sure regardless of whatever the surface you go for, you have an excellent running shoe to alleviate your adventure when running.