Is walking or running better?

Answer:

Walking is a gentle form of exercise suitable for most people, including the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, or those with limited time for physical activity. While walking does burn calories, it is generally less than running. However, both walking and running, when done correctly, can enhance health and build muscles. Depending on one’s preferences and underlying health conditions, each person can choose what works best for them.

Experts recommend moderate-intensity exercise for at least 150 minutes each week. For healthy individuals, a target of walking at least three kilometers daily is suggested to maintain overall well-being. When starting, it is advised to walk at a moderate pace, gradually increasing speed to build endurance and burn more calories. If you experience fatigue, exhaustion, or shortness of breath, stop to rest and avoid overexertion.

For those with chronic illnesses or health conditions, consulting a doctor for a suitable and safe exercise routine is crucial. Individuals who have had a stroke or have high blood pressure should avoid activities like swimming, diving, mountain climbing, and running. Instead, they should focus on simpler exercises such as walking, yoga, or badminton.

Dr. Nguyen Huy Hoang

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Research and Treatment Center, Vietnam-Russia Tropical Center