Walking vs Jogging: Which Is Better For Weight Loss?
First Published Sep 14, 2024, 2:43 PM ISTWalking and jogging are both great ways to lose weight. But do you know which one is better for weight loss?
Walking and jogging are both great ways to lose weight. But do you know which one is better for weight loss?
If anyone asks what is the most natural way to lose weight, most people would say walking or jogging. But do you know which is healthier, walking or jogging? Let's see in detail in this post.
The debate between walking and jogging is a common one when it comes to losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight. Both activities offer unique benefits. But it is very important to understand what is most sustainable for weight loss.
Walking
Walking is a gentle exercise with less risk. It is often a good choice for many people as it is less prone to injuries. It is a low-impact activity, so it's easy to incorporate walking.
Walking is an easy option for new exercisers or those with joint problems. Walking at a moderate pace burns a significant number of calories. For example, a 30-minute brisk walk can help burn 150-200 calories, depending on factors like speed and body weight.
You can get more benefits by avoiding some common mistakes while walking. First, walk upright and straight. Slouching can cause back and neck strain over time. Avoid walking while looking at your phone. It is important to wear appropriate shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters or joint pain.
Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking on slippery or uneven ground, especially during inclement weather conditions. Maintain a steady, controlled pace while walking. Additionally, avoid walking too close to obstacles or the edges of roads.
Be aware of traffic when walking near streets. By paying attention to these aspects, you can reduce your risk of injury and make your walking experience more enjoyable and effective.
Jogging
Jogging is relatively more intense, so it burns calories quickly and leads to rapid weight loss. Leads to rapid calorie burn and rapid weight loss. When you jog, your body works hard.
It increases your heart rate and metabolism. This higher intensity means that jogging can burn more calories in less time than walking. For example, a 30-minute jog can burn 300-400 calories, which is more than comparable walking.
Which is more sustainable? Walking or jogging?
When exercising for weight loss, it's not just about the calories burned, but also about consistency. Here, walking has a significant advantage. Its low impact means it's easy on your body, and jogging can lead to a number of problems, including very common joint pain. Continuous jogging can lead to lethargy.
While jogging can be effective, it can lead to more fatigue for people with health problems and is more likely to cause injuries if proper form and technique are not maintained. This can interfere with long-term weight loss efforts. Another important factor to consider is how each activity fits into your lifestyle.
But at the same time, walking can be easily integrated into everyday activities. You can walk to work, climb stairs, or walk with friends or family. This makes it easy to stay active without setting aside a specific time for exercise.
On the other hand, jogging may require more planning and preparation. It often requires specific footwear and a safe, suitable location, which may not always be accessible or convenient. Some people find that jogging's physical demands require more time commitment, which can be difficult to fit into a busy schedule.
Walk a few days a week and jog the rest of the days
Both walking and jogging contribute to overall cardiovascular health, improve mood, and support mental health. The choice between the two should depend on what is sustainable for you in the long run. If you enjoy a brisk pace and can handle the higher intensity of jogging, it can be a very effective option for weight loss.
However, if you prefer a gentler, more consistent approach, walking can be effective over time. It's a good idea to consider incorporating both activities. For example, incorporating your regular walk on some days and jogging on other days can provide a balanced approach that maximizes the benefits of both.
This variation can help reduce boredom and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Weight loss can be maximized when walking or jogging is combined with a healthy diet.
No matter how much you exercise, maintaining a balanced diet is essential for achieving and maintaining weight loss. Eating nutritious foods, controlling portion sizes, and staying hydrated can all help with successful weight loss.