Asphalt vs Concrete: Which is better to run on?

Many novice runners often wonder if running on asphalt can harm their joints. We assure you that running on paved roads or paths, including asphalt surfaces, poses no health risk.

Asphalt surfaces provide an ideal running experience, allowing the wind to approach you easily as you run. Many governments are investing in building such trails to enhance the running experience.

Running on asphalt will enable you to perform excellently while enjoying the surroundings.

However, if you don’t have access to an asphalt trail, rest assured that you can still have a great running experience on other surfaces.

Whether running on asphalt, paved forest paths, or even more challenging terrains, the latest excellently cushioned running shoes will provide the necessary support.

You can even switch between different surfaces during a run to add variety and challenge.

 Now, let’s delve into the comparison between asphalt and concrete, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages so that you can make an informed decision based on your preferences and needs.

Asphalt and Concrete in Running

When it comes to running surfaces, a runner’s comfort level plays a significant role in determining the optimal choice based on access to different environments and personal goals. Let’s take a closer look at asphalt as a running surface:

Asphalt

Asphalt is the most commonly used running surface. It is well-suited for shorter distances and is often chosen by those training for marathons, as many races take place on asphalt routes.

It is important to note that while running a marathon is not necessarily unhealthy, individuals with heart problems should exercise caution and avoid pushing themselves when exhausted.

Pros:

• Running on asphalt is ideal for those who aim for speed, as the risk of twisting is generally low.
• It is a widely available surface, making it convenient for most runners.

Cons:

• Compared to natural surfaces, asphalt provides less dampening and does not absorb all the shocks experienced during running. It can exert pressure on the body, potentially leading to shin irritation and stress fractures.
• The hard surface of asphalt can cause jolts in the joints, and runners need to be mindful of traffic, potholes, and chambers (the downward slant at the road’s edge).
• Classic cushioning or stable shoes offering support are recommended for running on asphalt. If you’re focusing on speed, lightweight trainers or competition shoes can be a suitable choice.

Road running safety tips:

• Choose routes with broad shoulders, bike lanes, or designated walkways to create a greater distance between you and passing vehicles.
• When running in low-light conditions, ensure you are visible using a headlamp and a flashing light on your backside.
• Always yield at stop signs, crosswalks, and major roadways to prioritize safety.

Concrete

Concrete is indeed a highly durable surface, surpassing the longevity of both asphalt and macadam.

However, it is considered the most unforgiving surface for running and is often recommended to be avoided. Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of running on concrete:

Advantages:

• Concrete sidewalks offer safety from traffic since they are separated from the road.
• Establishing a consistent rhythm and accurately measuring distances on a concrete surface is relatively easy.
• Concrete surfaces are smooth and flat, providing a consistent running experience.

Disadvantages:

• Running on concrete can significantly impact your joints, especially when running quickly. It is crucial to exercise caution and be mindful of barriers such as curbs, people, and vehicles when crossing streets, as sudden movements can increase the risk of injury.
• The repeated power with which your feet impact the hard surface of concrete or asphalt can potentially lead to shin splints and stress fractures.

Tip:  If you frequently run on asphalt or concrete, it is advisable to wear running shoes that have sufficient padding to absorb impact and provide adequate cushioning.

Consider looking for specific shoe features designed to mitigate the effects of running on harder surfaces.

While concrete is a common running surface found on roads, sidewalks, and paths, its lack of shock absorption and potential impact on joint health should be considered.

Assess your comfort and consider the potential risks before choosing concrete as your primary running surface.

What are the similarities between Asphalt and Concrete in the context of running?

Now, let’s explore the similarities between asphalt and concrete as running surfaces:

1. Impact: Asphalt is generally softer than concrete, providing a more forgiving running surface. However, the slight give in the surface can make it slightly more challenging to maintain a consistent pace.

2. Traction: Concrete offers higher traction than asphalt, especially when wet. This improved traction can make it easier to maintain proper running form and reduce the risk of slips and falls.

3. Resilience: Concrete is more resilient than asphalt and tends to endure longer without frequent repairs or maintenance. However, its firmer surface can put additional demands on joints and require careful attention to proper cushioning and footwear.

4. Temperature: In direct sunlight, asphalt tends to absorb and retain more heat than concrete, making it uncomfortably hot to run on during the hot summer months. Conversely, concrete tends to remain cooler, providing a more comfortable running experience in warmer weather.

It’s worth noting that concrete surfaces tend to be noisier than asphalt, particularly when running on busy streets or sidewalks. Some runners may find the increased noise level distracting.

Choosing between asphalt and concrete as running surfaces often depends on personal preference, availability, and individual preferences. Both surfaces have advantages and disadvantages, and runners may prioritize certain factors based on their choices and running style.

Can asphalt be better than concrete for runners?

Rigid pavement is the term used to describe concrete due to its lack of inherent flexibility. On the other hand, asphalt is known as a flexible pavement because it exhibits some degree of flexibility.

While asphalt may be a preferable choice for running surfaces compared to concrete, there may be better options than this one.

To better understand this, consider running on a rubberized pavement track where the track’s surface absorbs the impact. The pavement on a track differs significantly from both asphalt and concrete.

Typically, a track’s foundation material, which could have initially been asphalt or concrete, is mixed with small rubber granules to create a slightly rubbery or spongy sensation.

While asphalt concrete pavement is generally neither rubbery nor spongy, it does possess some elasticity. Asphalt and concrete have advantages and disadvantages when evaluating running quality.

While certain factors may depend on the contractor’s expertise, some aspects inherently differ.

For instance, let’s consider a sidewalk as an example. Adjacent to the sidewalk, several trees have roots growing beneath the pavement. If the pavement were asphalt, the roots might push through and create a raised area or “hump.”

It’s essential to carefully consider the characteristics of different surfaces when choosing a running route.

Factors such as impact absorption, flexibility, and potential obstacles should be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable running experience.

Takeaway

It is crucial to prioritize your physical safety regardless of the running surface you prefer.

If you observe that your friend is experiencing negative reactions to the surfaces you both run on, it is advisable to seek medical attention and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

If you are dealing with issues like stress fractures, shin splints, or chronic stiffness, you are likely overtraining. Persistent soreness after jogging may indicate the need for appropriate running shoes.

When feeling tired, it is essential to listen to your body and take a rest. Consider investing in running shoes that offer higher levels of cushioning.

Wearing slightly thicker running socks can help reduce the impact that travels up your body upon landing. These measures can contribute to minimizing discomfort and potential injuries during your runs.