running...

i REALLY want to enter a race in a few months and get into running more seriously. at the moment i can run on the treadmill easily a 5k in around 25mins

but...when i run outside i find it so much harder, is it just me? is there something im doing wrong? or are there any tips people can give me to make it easier/motivate me to run outside rather than on the treadmill?

thanks

To make the treadmill closer simulate outside, you may want to add about .5% elevation.  Keep in mind, too, that if you've never entered a race before, you won't come in first......or last.  Just get there and enjoy it.  If there's a school around somewhere close, you can run on the running track.  That gives you a controlled environment without traffic (or dog) worries.  If you're on a track, you can run with an I-pod or similar device.  That helps me, generally.  Get a good bunch of high-tempo songs and hit the track.

I'm opposite of you. I run so much easier when I am outside rather than on a treadmill. I hate winter for this reason -- I have to run on the darn treadmill. It takes quite a bit of motivation for me to get going on the treadmill, especially for my long runs. When I'm running on the treadmill, I get bored very easily. I don't like being stationary and seeing the same thing the entire time. Outside, the scenery changes. I wish I had the lungs to be able to do my running outside in the winter...

When you run outside, you have to propel yourself up and forward.  On the dreadmill you only have to propel yourself up, so it's easier.

I feel that way, too. I set my treadmill at a 1 or 2% incline per advice of co-workers who run marathons, but it still sucks outside. I'm wondering if my pace is faster outside as that's one thing that's controlled by the machine.

http://www.halhigdon.com/5K%20Training/5-Knov ice.htm

I highly suggest you check out this training program! There is one for intermediate and novice, too. This guy has online running schedules for every type of race you can think of-I'm doing one for the half marathon and I've found it really effective. Good luck! :)