Running vs Walking

Running or Walking:

It's warming up and most are getting that urge to get outdoors. Many folks are brandishing their new foot gear and headed out for some form of exercise.

I have started going to a park several times a week for 20 -30 minutes. I am a people watcher behind my sunglasses. I see some people that have hibernated all winter and are now huffing and puffing, extremely out of shape and struggling to jog. I'm very fearful I may be obliged to perform CPR on them.  Others, who have been "die hard" runners all winter long, are sprinting effortlessly. And then there's some people like me, feeling a bit guilty and just taking a brisk walk.

But should there be any guilt in "just walking"? Many faithful, almost addicted runners, would tell you it's pointless to walk.  Should you run or walk? Well, in "medical terms", "it depends".

It Depends:

There is no doubt there are benefits to both running and walking. Either way you're moving your mass, and that is really what it's all about. A sedentary lifestyle is now dubbed more dangerous to our health than SMOKING!! So just getting up and moving a few minutes several times a day is advantageous.

With running, you get your heart rate up. You expend a LOT more energy than walking, which burns a lot more calories. The jury is out about damaging your joints and  pounding the pavement. I personally know a couple of people that are running "addicts" and have suffered a LOT with knee and leg injuries. It seems the better shape you're in, meaning muscle mass, the better your body will be equipped to withstand the impact of a run.

Walking on the other hand has tremendous benefits and gives a lot of "bang for the buck".
Just 20-30 minutes a day or even 3 times a week can be a huge health benefit.

Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. ...
It lowers disease risk. ...
It keeps weight in check. ...

Can help prevent dementia. ...
Can help prevent osteoporosis.
It tones your legs, and torso
It boosts your vitamin D levels

To mention just a few benefits.

I just invested in a new "gym membership" - some new walking shoes with yoga mat material inside of them! Like walking on marshmallows! 

So whether you choose to go for a walk or go for a run,  just MOVE YOUR MASS!!!

Helping YOU to Select The Best Health,

Sherry