Walking vs Running!
In some weight-loss and conditioning studies, walking actually has proven to be more effective than running. That’s because it’s virtually injury-free and has the lowest dropout rate of any form of exercise. Like other forms of exercise, walking appears to have a substantial psychological payoff. Beginning walkers almost invariably report that they feel better and sleep better, and that their mental outlook improves. Walking also can exert a favorable influence on personal habits.
For example, smokers who begin walking often cut down or quit. There are two reasons for this. One, it is difficult to exercise vigorously if you smoke, and two, better physical condition encourages a desire to improve other aspects of one’s life.
In addition to the qualities it has in common with other activities, walking has several unique advantages. Some of these are:
Almost everyone can do it. You don’t have to take lessons to learn how to walk. Probably all you need to do to become a serious walker is step up your pace and distance and walk more often.
You can do it almost anywhere and anytime. All you have to do to find a place to walk is step outside your door. Almost any sidewalk, street, road, trail, park, field, or shopping mall will do. The variety of settings available is one of the things that make walking such a practical and pleasurable activity.
Weather doesn’t pose the same problems and uncertainties that it does in many sports. Walking is not a seasonal activity, and you can do it in extreme temperatures that would rule out other activities.
