Walking vs. Running: The Truth About Which is Best for Fat Loss

The question of whether walking or running is better for fat loss has been debated repeatedly in fitness circles. They both have their health benefits but we will help you make the best choice for you.

Walking: The Steady Pace

It is always said that walking is an alternative for diligent beginners and recovering injury patients. It's a low-impact activity that engages various muscle groups, including your core and legs.

Walking uses more fat for fuel than running, and that is one of the reasons walking is better in some circumstances. Your body usually uses fat stores as energy when you walk at a moderate pace.

Running: The High-Intensity Option

Running is an intense activity that burns more calories per minute. It may not be as fat-burning of an activity as walking, but the cumulative calorie burn over time can be quite impressive. It is for this reason that running actually may attract people looking to lose weight and improve their cardiovascular health.

Calorie Burn: The Bottom Line

The total calorie burn is key and it certainly matters when it comes to fat loss. Walking may burn more fat for fuel, but the increased intensity of running typically results in a larger caloric expenditure overall. So it can be a good idea to include running in your daily routine if you are trying to lose weight.

The Metabolic Boost: Slightly More Interesting Than Calories

As well as calorie burn, exercises such as running can also improve your resting metabolic rate. These hormones cause your body to burn more calories from those you take in, even when you're sleeping. Increasing your metabolism can help you manage a healthy body weight and composition.

Finding the Right Balance

The balance between walking and running is often the best approach to fat loss. By combining both you can create a more complete workout; incorporating strength training will help maintain the muscle tissue that provides structure, and burn more calories in doing so. Play around with different mixes to see what you like the best.

In conclusion, the best way to lose fat is the one you like and can maintain. Whether it is walking or running to keep obesity at bay, you should always be active. Trying to incorporate some alternatives will help with reaching the target of losing weight.