Calories Burned

When it comes to burning calories, jogging has a clear advantage over walking. On average, jogging burns significantly more calories per minute. For instance, a person weighing 155 pounds can burn approximately 372 calories by jogging at a speed of 6 miles per hour for 30 minutes. In contrast, the same person would burn around 149 calories walking at a pace of 4 miles per hour for the same duration. This means that jogging can help you achieve your calorie-burning goals much faster than walking.

Impact on Joints

While jogging may burn more calories, it also has a higher impact on your joints. The repetitive pounding motion associated with jogging can put stress on your knees, ankles, and hips, potentially leading to joint pain or injuries over time. Walking, on the other hand, is a low-impact exercise that is gentler on the joints. This makes walking a safer option for individuals with existing joint issues or those who are new to exercising.

Overall Effectiveness for Fitness Goals

Both jogging and walking have their own set of benefits when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. Jogging is more effective for those looking to lose weight quickly and improve cardiovascular health due to its higher calorie burn. However, walking is an excellent option for maintaining overall health, improving mood, and increasing daily physical activity without the risk of injury. Ultimately, the choice between jogging and walking depends on your personal fitness goals and physical condition. For many, a combination of both can provide a balanced and effective fitness routine.