Running or Walking – Which is Best for Weight Loss?

By Team eLifestyle Fitness and Lifestyle Expert Robb Armstrong

Last week in our “Ask an Expert” segment we explained the importance of maintaining muscle mass throughout the aging process.

This week we observe the differences between running and walking and which is best for weight loss – undoubtedly one of the most common concerns to the weight-conscious individual.

Simply put, both running and walking while trying to cut the excess pounds are a good choice, however, running does burn far more calories and can have a greater effect on overall health.

You must also keep in mind though that there are a few things to consider to determine which is best for you to do as an individual to meet your weight loss goal – all of which are predetermined by your personal ability.

Your Fitness Ability
Matching your intensity for walking or running with your ability is key in a few ways. First, if you’re you a beginner, are overweight, have any current injuries, or have any pre-existing physical or medical conditions such as shin splints, a cardiovascular condition or osteoporosis, you’ll want to limit your intensity.

Next, you should monitor your success and increase intensity accordingly. This is where walking for weight loss has the clear edge due to the low impact it has on bones, joints and muscles while still increasing the benefits on overall health.

Time Spent
Whether walking or running, you’ll get the greatest benefit if you aim for thirty to sixty minutes each day, building on your intensity as you improve on your ability.

Goals
For best results keep them small and stay consistent, increasing them bit-by-bit every week.


Note: Check back each week for more of eLifestyle's helpful health and fitness tips by Robb!