Does Running on a Treadmill Affect the Front Part of the Lower Leg?

The treadmill was designed to mimic walking or running outside, and both forms of exercise rely on the legs. Though the action is mimicked on the surface, the way your body responds to propelling itself forward on a moving belt -- as opposed to propelling itself forward on a stationary surface -- does affect your legs in different ways. The front part of your lower leg is worked more on a treadmill than it is when you run outdoors, according to the website Triathlete.

  1. The Treadmill's Effect

    • Since you have to lift your toes in order to step forward and land on your heel, the muscle responsible for this action is affected while on the treadmill. Lifting or flexing your toes activates the front part of your lower leg, or the tibialis anterior. Each time your heel impacts the rapidly moving belt, your heel is pulled back like it would be if you were running, and this motion requires more activation and strength from the tibalis anterior.

    Stressing the Shins

    • A number of factors could contribute to pain in the front part of the lower leg. Shin splints, which can hinder continuation of exercise, refers to pain in the front part of the lower leg caused by tibial stress. According to the American Council on Exercise, shin splints can be caused by a muscular weakness in the area, poor shoe quality, underlying medical issues or it can be the result of skipped stretching and warming up. The treadmill places more stress on the tibialis anterior, so if it's not strong enough to sustain the stress of your workout, you will feel pain. If you have persistent pain you should consult a doctor.

    Strengthening With Squats

    • Squats can help strengthen the tibialis. To perform, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Push back and lower your glutes until your thighs are parallel with the ground. Hold for five seconds before driving up through your heels. Repeat for 12 to 15 repetitions and complete four sets. While stabilizing during the downward stance of this exercise, your body will activate the tibialis. Always keep your core tight and don’t arch your back.

    Lowering Effects

    • Sometimes changing the way you run on the treadmill can change how it affects your tibialis. Instead of striking with your heel, jog or run completely on your toes. This will place most of the muscular stress on the back of your lower leg. Though an impact is still sent through your lower leg with each step, and the tibialis is still affected, the use of the muscle will be changed. Lowering the speed and increasing the incline also reduces tibialis activation because your foot will not flex as high, and your hips will assist so you can move more effectively uphill.

    Safety Tips for the Tibialis

    • Always warm up before any exercise and stretch after your warm up. To stretch the front part of your lower leg, stand near a wall for balance and lift back one of your legs. Hold your toes and the ball of your foot and pull toward your glutes. Hydrate throughout your workout and speak with your doctor if you have lower leg pain that persists.