Can’t decide between running and walking? Take a look at the advantages and disadvantage of both.
Running and walking are two of the most popular activities available. They are both affordable (you can’t beat free!) and easy to start. You don’t need to pay a gym membership, purchase a workout DVD, or learn advanced techniques to do either of these exercises.
So which one is right for you? Running vs. walking is a common debate, so let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of both to see which one is best for your health.
Advantages of running
The major advantage of running is weight loss. If your ultimate goal is to lose weight and shed inches from your waist, then you are going to want to start running. Studies by Berkley researchers found that runners are more likely to keep off the pounds and maintain a steady waistline better than walkers. Runners are often thinner than walkers, and they are more likely to stay that way.
Disadvantages of running
As many runners can tell you, injury is the biggest drawback of running. It’s considered a high-impact sport, and the continual pounding on the legs can cause injury to the hips, knees, and ankles. Runner’s knee, ankle sprains, and shin splints are all too common among the running community.
Advantages of walking
Walking is one of the great overall health exercises. It’s low impact and easy to start yet gets your heart pumping and works a wide variety of muscles. The most obvious advantage is the lowered risk of injury compared to many exercises, especially running. Walking has been shown to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and the risk of diabetes, all without the risk of nagging injuries.
Disadvantages of walking
If time is a factor, then walking is probably not for you. In general, you will have to be walking for 50 to 100% longer than the average runner to burn the same amount of energy. So when a runner goes for about 30 minutes, you need to go for about 45 minutes to an hour to get an equivalent calorie-burn. If you only have so much time to spare, you’re going to prefer running.
Running vs. walking: what’s the bottom line
So what does all this mean, and how can you use this information to make the right decision? First of all, if you are new to exercising or significantly overweight, you’ll likely want to start with regular walking.
Because running can be so damaging to your legs, you don’t want to risk an injury that can completely derail your fitness. It’s best to start slowly and work your way into more vigorous exercises. For example, spend a week going for walks then add short bursts of running gradually making running your primary exercise.
If you’re already jogging, make sure you are wearing high-quality shoes that give good cushioning and support. You could also make an effort to run on softer surfaces like grass fields, dirt trails, and gym tracks as opposed to concrete trails and sidewalks.
Get reliable information from POM MRI Centers
During your training, minor injuries may occur. POM MRI and Imaging Centers have the equipment, experience, and knowledge to help you get the medical information you need. Feel free to touch base regarding any concerns you may have.