Is walking better than running?

Brisk walking is considered moderate-intensity exercise, which is defined in simple terms as an activity that allows you to hold a conversation, but is too taxing to allow you to sing. Running, of course, is a much more challenging activity, and is considered a vigorous-intensity workout.

Walking and running both offer many of the same advantages. A study published in an American Heart Association journal reported that walking and running led to similar risk reductions for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.

Keep in mind, however, that you need to walk for a longer period of time to burn as many calories and to achieve some of the other benefits that come from running.

But if you’re not pressed for time, or you’re not looking to enter a 10K race, walking can be a better option, especially if you have joint issues, injuries, or back pain.

Walking puts less stress and strain on your joints and feet than running. A 2016 study found that the impact force of running is significantly higher than walking, whether walking moderately or vigorously. That means there’s a lower risk for joint injuries with walking.

Summary

Walking at a brisk or moderate-intensity pace offers many of the same benefits as running. However, you will need to walk for a longer period of time to burn as many calories and to reap some of the same benefits.