ASK KEITRA: Running vs. Walking

QUESTION:

Is running a better form of exercise than walking? I know you burn calories quicker while running as opposed to walking…but is one better than the other?

~Conversation Starter

ANSWER: There are people who absolutely LOVE running and some who absolutely HATE running. I happen to be one of those people who are on the fence…I try to do a combination of both.

In order to maintain weight one must get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 7 days a week. To lose weight one must engage in at least 30-45 minutes vigorous activity 3-4 days per week. How do you know what’s moderate and what’s vigorous? You can use the “Talk Test.”

The Talk Test:

• Low Intensity: When you can sing a song while you’re walking without getting out of breath. This should be done during your warm up and cool down.
• Moderate intensity: You can talk while performing the activity without getting out of breath.
• Vigorous Intensity: When you cannot sing or talk during the activity.

My philosophy: In order to see results you MUST do something that strikes your interest…or you won’t stick to it. So, if you hate running try different things such as riding bikes or running small intervals at a time.

My advice: Listen to your body and figure out what’s best for YOU.