Which is better for health benefits, brisk walking or jogging?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been considering improving my health through exercise. I'm trying to decide between brisk walking and jogging. I've heard both are good exercises, but I'm not sure which one is more suitable for me. Generally speaking, my health is quite good—I don't suffer from any significant illnesses—I just want to ask everyone, which exercise is better for weight loss, brisk walking or jogging?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Brisk walking and jogging are both beneficial forms of exercise, each with its own distinct characteristics and effects.
Benefits of Brisk Walking:
1. Enhances cardiopulmonary function: As an aerobic exercise, brisk walking improves heart and lung function, increases blood circulation and oxygen intake, and helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Promotes metabolism: Brisk walking helps burn excess body fat and calories, promoting metabolism, and can aid in weight loss and body shaping.
3. Improves bone health: Brisk walking places moderate pressure on the bones, helping to stimulate bone growth and remodeling, and prevent osteoporosis.
4. Relieves mental stress: Brisk walking also promotes the secretion of endorphins and other mood-enhancing hormones, which can help alleviate negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.
Benefits of Jogging:
1. Efficient fat burning: In the same amount of time, jogging burns more calories than brisk walking and is more effective for weight loss and body fat control.
2. Enhances muscular strength: Jogging strengthens the lower body muscles and improves leg strength and endurance.
3. Improves mental health: The endorphins released during jogging can elevate mood and help relieve stress and anxiety.
4. Increases bone density: Jogging is a weight-bearing exercise that helps increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
If your goal is weight loss or improving cardiovascular fitness and you don't have significant joint issues, jogging may be a better choice. However, if you experience joint pain, are new to exercise, or prefer low-intensity activities, brisk walking would be more appropriate.
