‘Romance’ is the last word anyone would associate with exercise, but it’s hard to deny running has a certain romantic appeal.
Perhaps it’s the the power of using your own two legs to get from A to B, and fast. Perhaps it’s the head-clearing powers of the wind whipping through your hair as you run along the coastline. Perhaps it’s the excuse to wear fancy leggings.
Whatever it is, there’s something about running that transforms ordinary people into evangelicals. However, appealing as it might seem, running seems like an unreachable dream for many of us. Enter: walking.
A good brisk walk is surely just as effective as a run, we reason as runners smugly dart around us on the footpath. Plus, it won’t mess up my knees.
So, is there a winner in this footpath war? Is running inherently “better” for you than walking, or is walking the underrated dark horse?
As you’ve probably guessed, there’s no simple answer to that question. According to Exercise and Sports Science Australia’s Industry Development Officer, Alex Lawrence, it’s dependent on a number of factors — most of which come down to the individual.
Watch: A bodyweight circuit you can do at home. (Post continues after video.)
Top Comments
I would suggest either is better than nothing. For myself it's walking, as I'm not anywhere near fit enough to even attempt running. However, if a person is fit enough to go running, good for them.