Is Walking Just As Good As Running?
Everyone knows or has met runners. Whether they run on the open road or on the treadmill they can go the distance. My daughter easily does 4 miles on the treadmill and I have many relatives that enter 5K and more races. I also used to be a runner but now focus on bicycling and long walks. So are walks healthy and can they be as good for you as running? The key seems to be how much energy is expended. If you walk for a good distance and burn up the same calories as a jogger who jogs 1-2 miles, then YES, walking can give you the same health benefits. What are those health benefits? Lowering your risk of heart disease, less risk of hypertension, less risk of diabetes. As article in the December 2013 issue of Tufts’ Health and Nutrition Letter, outlined the many health benefits of walking. Dr. Nelson, a professor at Tufts is quoted, “A 150 pound woman will burn 80 to 100 calories for each mile she walks.” ...