Walking vs Running for Fat Loss

Introduction:

When it comes to fat loss, both walking and running are effective options—but they serve different purposes and suit different lifestyles. Whether you're looking for low-impact sustainability or high-efficiency intensity, the right choice depends on your goals and physical condition.

Running is often praised for its efficiency. It burns more calories per minute, builds cardiovascular endurance, and strengthens your legs and core. For those with limited time, running is a great way to get a solid workout in quickly. However, it does come with downsides—it's high impact and may not be ideal for people with joint issues or injuries. Proper technique and recovery are essential to avoid strains or overuse injuries.

Walking, in contrast, is gentle on the joints and accessible to almost everyone. Long walks promote fat metabolism, making them especially effective for low-intensity steady-state (LISS) cardio. It’s perfect for beginners, people recovering from injury, or those easing back into exercise. The only drawback is that it typically requires more time to achieve the same calorie burn as running.

So, what’s best for fat loss? A combination is often ideal. Walking paired with a balanced diet is a sustainable, beginner-friendly approach. Meanwhile, running intervals can accelerate fat loss for more experienced exercisers. A sample week could include brisk walks on Monday and Friday, and short run intervals or jogs on Wednesday. Scenic routes like the Gold Coast’s Broadwater Parklands provide a beautiful backdrop to stay motivated while burning fat.