That difference could possibly be explained by another recent study, which suggests that running regulates our appetite hormones better than walking. After running or walking, participants were invited to a buffet, where walkers consumed 50 calories more than they had burned and runners ate 200 calories more than they'd burned. Runners also had higher levels of the hormone peptide YY, which may suppress appetite.
Beyond losing weight, walking may still be super beneficial to our health. Researchers looked at data from the National Runners' Health Study and the National Walkers' Health Study and found that people who expended the same amount of calories—regardless of whether they were walking or running—saw pretty much the same health benefits. We're talking a reduced risk of hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes, and better cardiovascular health.
But even the most time-efficient athletes might want to think twice before sprinting away all the time. Running puts more stress on the body and increases the risk for injuries like runner's knee, hamstring strains, and the dreaded shin splits (which plague even the most consistent runners). And of course, some people simply prefer to take things slow.
More: 4 Common Cardio Mistakes That Hinder Your Weight Loss
Walk This Way—Your Action Plan
When running isn't in the cards, walking with weights might be the next best solution to getting in an energized workout. One study showed walking at 4 mph on the treadmill with hand and ankle weights was comparable to jogging at 5 mph without the extra poundage.
No matter which pace feels right, always make sure the body is ready for action. Sixty percent of runners experience an injury serious enough to keep them from being active. So remember that a sweat session may be too strenuous if talking to that workout buddy leaves us gasping for air (aka the "talk test" FAIL). Listening to the body and completing a proper warm–up and cool down are all ways to prevent injuries, so stay informed and spend more time running on the treadmill (and less time running to the doctor).
More: 13-Minute Workout to Firm Up and Melt Fat
Bored with both walking and running? There are about, oh, a bazillion other ways to keep active, from yoga and Pilates to weight lifting and mountain biking, and pretty much everything in between. Don't be afraid to try new activities to stay happy and healthy!
The Takeaway
Regular cardio (at any speed) can help keep the body healthy, not to mention improve mood and energy levels. But, lap for lap, running burns about two-and-a-half times more calories than walking. Running may also help control appetite, so runners may lose more weight than walkers no matter how far the walkers go. Still, running isn't for everyone; going full-speed might increase injury risk. Adding hand and ankle weights can help pick up the intensity while maintaining a slower pace.
More: 5 Fun Ways to Exercise Outside
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