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While running and jogging are both aerobic exercises that affect the heart, lungs, muscles and bones, their similarities are not extensive. Commonly defined by a pace around 9 minutes per mile, running requires a higher level of physical ability. However, since physical ability is widely varied, the definitions between the two are largely subjective.

In the physical therapy and sports training community, jogging is advised as the next step after walking for individuals seeking to lose weight, decrease blood pressure or build bone density, especially after injuries. For aspiring runners, the slower pace of jogging may be attractive not only because it's the pace they're capable of, but the resulting, slow endorphin release results in an overall feeling of well-being, despite the soreness. Since the caloric burn, according to some doctors, is quicker than walking, jogging is commonly seen as a way for beginners to enter into the running lifestyle, despite the original connotations of the word.

The term "jogging" originated in the United Kingdom and referred to a type of slow running. Called "roadwork" in the United States, it meant the long, slow miles athletes such as boxers completed as part of their endurance training. However, as the popularity of physical fitness rose in the 1960's and 70's, the term "jogging" entered into common usage and was synonymous with running.

Serious runners stick to the idea that there is a difference and that the leisurely jog and training run differs at roughly the 8-9 minute mile pace. Because running can raise the heart rate quickly to an anaerobic state, its benefits are mostly endurance and strength related. Running is not recommended as a method of weight loss primarily because the common mistake of advancing mileage and speed too rapidly will result in injuries, setting many back with additional, more serious, problems. Also, if a person's stamina is low, as is the case with beginning, or out-of-shape individuals, workout times will be drastically reduced effectively minimizing any benefits they were trying to obtain.

Since the definitions of the terms are subjective, regardless of actual definitions, it is up to each individual to decide if their pace warrants the title of a "run" or a "jog". If you're trying to put in miles before or after work during your free time, the decision falls on you. As long as your pace keeps you motivated, the term you choose is just a minor detail.

Learn more about this author, Clint Rogers.
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