Walking and running are both suitable forms of exercise for weight loss and heart health. The benefits and risks depend on a person’s goals and current level of health and fitness.
While both activities allow a person to burn calories, lose weight, and lower their risk of heart disease, there is much debate over which is better.
Read on to learn more about the benefits and risks.
Cardiovascular exercise is also known simply as cardio. It often uses major muscle groups in the body, gets the heart pumping faster, and increases breathing rate.
Walking and running are both types of cardio.
Cardio exercises offer numerous health benefits, including:
One study examined the benefits of exercise for mental health and found that 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, was enough to reduce anxiety and depression, alongside its other health benefits.
Walking and running provide similar health benefits, but