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Walking vs running for fitness often arises as an issue for people seeking to burn large number of calories and maximize weight loss quickly. Common belief is that running for fitness is better for you because of heart rate, less time to burn more calories and it seems like you are doing more. However, running is NOT better then walking.

Walking for fitness is less traumatic on the body. Running actually jars and jolts the joints which can result in knee, hip and back injuries. Without proper training on how to run combined with appropriate clothing, running increases the average person's risk of injury. While injured it is much more difficult to maintain a fitness program and routine.

Power walking is the new rage. In power walking, make sure you walk heel to toe. Walk on different elevations. Walk as quickly as you can with your arms bent at your chest level. Essentially, you are pumping your arms back and forth to increase speed. Begin walking slowly and increase speed. You will maximize heart rate, burn significant calories and even sweat out impurities in the body! Slow down your walking as you become fatigued.

Stomach cramping is a result of your body not getting enough oxygen. Adjust your breating to inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth as you power walk or do any type of aerobic fitness training.

If you are walking on a treadmill, start out at no incline and slow speed. Gradually increase speed per quarter lap. After you have reached the mile limit, increase incline and maintain speed. Increase incline every quarter mile while maintaining speed until you have walked approximately 3 miles. Decrease incline and maintain speed for the last mile. Decrease speed during the last lap. By walking this way on a treadmill, you can maximize calorie usage and get a strong aerobic workout.

Whether you choose to run or walk for fitness, it is imperative to stick with a routine. Consistency will benefit your health more so then sporadic work outs.

Learn more about this author, Joyce Priddy.
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