Walk, jog, or run?- What is best for you?

Walk, jog, or run? – This is the most common dilemma which people face. There are various assumptions regarding them. So, what’s your pick? 

All of us are aware of the benefits of staying active. We already have put a lot of emphasis on the importance of physical activity, and how it saves you from many cardiovascular diseases like- heart attack, high blood pressure, etc. 

All of these exercises will not only protect you from diseases but will also keep your bones strong. Walking, running, or jogging can be a part of your daily routine like brushing your teeth or taking a bath. So, let’s dig into the topic and understand the difference and the impacts. 

The number of calories you burn while performing these exercises varies according to age, gender, weight, height, etc. So, anyone making claims that you’ll burn this exact amount of calories is a flawed concept. There are many factors to keep in mind while calculating calories. 

Here we will not talk about the number of calories you will burn, but will guide you to decide what’s best for you. 

Walking: 

It is probably the most underrated exercise. People usually neglect it saying that it is not enough to lose weight or stay fit. Here’s the truth, walking can help you lose weight. Walking for half an hour to one hour will surely benefit you. 

When they say- “Walk and Talk.” Take it seriously, and you will be surprised to see the benefits. It is one of the best ways to maintain weight, even without realizing it. Running or jogging is not always easy for those with knee injuries. But, brisk walking will not put much pressure on your knees. Choose what your body allows you to do. Most importantly, choose what you enjoy doing. 

To increase the number of calories you burn, you can try walking with a weighted vest or with dumbbells in hand. Else, walking on an incline path will also burn more calories than on a flat surface. These methods can provide you with almost equivalent benefits as running does. Choose what your body permits. 🙂

Jogging: 

The thumb rule is you’ll burn more calories with the increase in the intensity of your workouts. Jogging burns more calories than walking per minute. Jogging is running at a relaxed phase. 

Jogging doesn’t involve much of your arm movements. The impact on the muscles and joints is more than walking but less than running. So, this feature allows you to stay active for a little longer. 

Jogging can also burn more calories than usual if you do it on an inclined path. But, this can put pressure on your knees if your form is incorrect. Choose what your body permits. 🙂

Running: 

The difference between running and jogging lies in the intensity. Running is more intense than jogging or walking. It will burn more calories and will you tone your muscles. 

Running is the best way to strengthen your muscles. So, it is always a good idea to add them to your workout routine for a change. Don’t run if you have knee pain because it can get worse by putting more pressure on your knees. Take a rest or consult your doctor. 

Jumper’s knee and runner’s knee are some common problems that a runner might face. Both of them are overuse injuries. Stay alert and take a break when needed.

 Runner’s knee causes pain while running, squatting, bending, or even sitting for too long. Whereas, jumper’s knee will cause pain while squatting or jumping and landing. An ice pack and rest for a few days will help you recover. 

Wogging:

Wogging is a combination of walking and jogging or walking or running. Initially, you might not be able to run or jog at a stretch. But, one can choose to walk- run or walk-jog intervals. You can run for 3 minutes and then walk for 1 minute. 

You can change your time intervals for the two as per your strength and running intensity. 

Takeaway: 

Walk, jog, or run, all of them will help you maintain your weight. These exercises can significantly improve posture and leg- strength. 

Be careful about the shoes you choose while performing them, as they can be one of the reasons for your leg pain later. Good shoes and workout clothes might look quite expensive to some, but trust me, they’re one of your best investments. They will save you from many injuries. So, don’t hesitate to choose the best. 

Choose what is best for your body. Gradually the strength will improve. You can always add weights if you feel comfortable. An inclined path is one of the best ways to increase intensity. Do it in proper form to avoid injuries.