{"id":655239,"date":"2026-03-14T14:27:29","date_gmt":"2026-03-14T14:27:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/655239\/"},"modified":"2026-03-14T14:27:29","modified_gmt":"2026-03-14T14:27:29","slug":"youre-probably-choosing-the-wrong-cardio-should-you-go-on-a-walk-or-a-run-it-depends-on-your-goals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/655239\/","title":{"rendered":"You\u2019re Probably Choosing The Wrong Cardio. Should You Go On A Walk Or A Run? It Depends On Your Goals."},"content":{"rendered":"

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Walking Vs. Running: Which Is Better For You? The Good Brigade – Getty Images<\/p>\n

You only have so much time in your day to exercise, so you might be wondering what\u2019s better: walking versus running? It might seem obvious; running requires more energy and effort, so isn\u2019t it better exercise? It\u2019s not that simple, say experts. Whether you should run or walk depends on a bunch of different factors and goals.<\/p>\n

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to walking<\/a> versus running<\/a>: \u201cThey both count,\u201d says Rachelle Reed, PhD, an exercise scientist based in Athens, GA. Whether you\u2019re walking or running, you\u2019re getting some kind of physical activity in\u2014and that\u2019s what matters, she says. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes<\/a> of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week, so as long as your walks are reaching that level (more on how to do that soon), you\u2019re good to go with whichever feels right for you.<\/p>\n

Still, there are some individual benefits to each option and reasons you\u2019d want to choose one over the other. Here’s how to decide if you want to be a walker or a runner depending on your goals.<\/p>\n

Meet the experts:<\/strong> Rachelle Reed<\/a>, PhD, is an exercise scientist based in Athens, GA. Erica Coviello<\/a>, CPT, is a level 2 certified RRCA running coach and owner of Run Fit Stoked<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Benefits Of Walking<\/strong><\/p>\n

Walking<\/a> is a great option to get active, especially if you\u2019re just starting out or prefer exercise options that are low-impact<\/a>, a.k.a. easier on your joints.<\/p>\n

Another major benefit of walking is that it\u2019s pretty simple to get started with, which can also have the effect of helping you build up a routine. \u201cIf someone is beginning a new habit regarding exercise or physical activity, walking can be a nice place to start,\u201d says Reed. \u201cThis way, they can focus on consistency, setting their environment up for success, and finding micro-wins over time.\u201d And, BTW, the biggest benefits from exercise are seen when someone goes from doing almost no physical activity to any additional amount, says Reed. So, if you\u2019re a beginner who feels like walking won\u2019t be enough to make a difference, think again.<\/p>\n

And, depending on the intensity of your routine, walking as an exercise-staple can have both noticeable physical and mental health benefits\u2014just ask the hot girl walkers<\/a> or 12-3-30<\/a> followers. Walking in steady-state zone 2 cardio can promote quality sleep, boost cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of chronic disease<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Benefits of walking:<\/strong><\/p>\n