3 of 16

Write now Article Tools

I just took a Physical Fitness class in college over the last 3 months. I learned quite a bit about the differences in walking and jogging(better used term for running). Most of this is statistical, but I'm going to give you my experience also. The class itself was a teaching/learning tool...but I also read the book titled, "Walking & Jogging For Health & Fitness" by Frank Rosato.

The books will show you that walking and jogging can burn the EXACT same amount of calories and can result in the same usage of energy AND impact. Jogging at 5 mph is equal to walking at the same speed-this uses the same amount of oxygen cost and energy. HOWEVER, jogging UP a hill uses more energy than walking up a hill at the same speed. The reason behind this is because when you're jogging-both feet come off the ground, thus, causing your body to work more.

Jogging is a better way to tighten your thighs and calves, however, walking can give almost the same effect when you "power walk"(walking briskly with arms moving back and forth). Jogging is very healthy for your heart, but for people with breathing and asthma problems, walking is the better option.

My experience in walking for 3 miles straight, non-stop proved to me that it was a very vigorous excerise and it definitely helped my blood circulation, heart rate, muscle flexibility and leg and stomach muscles. Leisure walking does NOT help you with many of these things. You have to really work your body in order to burn calories or cause your heart rate to increase and the blood to pump.

Now, on the statistical side, you will burn more calories by jogging/running an hour versus walking an hour. HOWEVER-you will really like this part-You will burn MORE calories by WALKING a mile rather than running a mile. When you run a mile-you're burning mostly sugars or carbohydrates, which is how your body gives you fast energy; When you walk a mile-you are giving your metabolism time to switch from burning carbs to actually burning fat.

Now, I have to say this, there are many factors to how many calories and carbs you burn and they differ from case to case. Larger people tend to burn more calories than smaller people-especially when they are walking or climbing stairs.

Walking is great for the joints and provides great cardiovascular benefits without all the stress that walking puts on you.

So, many people favor walking over running. Yet, most of those people will tell you that they think running is better for your health and weight-loss issues.

However you may feel about this issue, I've given you tons and information and now its time for YOU TO DECIDE! :-)

Learn more about this author, NavyWife8511.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Walking vs. running for fitness?
We want to hear your view. Write now!