Calories burned running vs. walking same distance

GothyFaery

I have a very sedentary desk job so I like to get up and move for my lunch break. I had been changing into some workout gear and running for 30 minutes then when I got back I would have to shower and change back into my work clothes. I was always rushed and felt nasty for the rest of the day. Between changing, showering and running, that would eat up my whole 60 minute lunch and it just because a pain.

So I started walking over my break instead. I'm able to walk the same distance in an hour that I would run in half an hour. Because I'm not sweating, I'm able to skip changing and showering so it's way more convenient. And honestly, I enjoy it so much more.

Is there really that big of a calorie burn difference between walking vs. running the same distance? Are there any benefits to running besides improved cardio that I can't get from walking?

Unknown

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cwolfman13

The formula to estimate net (additional) calories burned walking is .30 x weight (in lbs) x distance (in miles)...running is about double that. For shorter distances, the difference in total calories burned between the two isn't that significant...the more miles, the more significant the difference becomes.

sijomial

Here are common formulae.....

Net Running calories Spent = (Body weight in pounds) x (0.63) x (Distance in miles)
Net Walking calories Spent = (Body weight in pounds) x (0.30) x (Distance in miles)

If you enjoy walking but dislike running then I would guess walking is the one you can stick with longer term.
Make it a brisk walk though.

MeanderingMammal

GothyFaery wrote: »

Is there really that big of a calorie burn difference between walking vs. running the same distance? Are there any benefits to running besides improved cardio that I can't get from walking?

Significantly better aerobic capacity from running and the weight bearing aspect is beneficial, particularly for women. It helps maintain bone density. Recent research is also indicating better joint health in runners.

But if you're finding reasons not to do it, then stick with walking. Adherence is more important than anything else.

Wheelhouse15

sijomial wrote: »

Here are common formulae.....

Net Running calories Spent = (Body weight in pounds) x (0.63) x (Distance in miles)
Net Walking calories Spent = (Body weight in pounds) x (0.30) x (Distance in miles)

If you enjoy walking but dislike running then I would guess walking is the one you can stick with longer term.
Make it a brisk walk though.

^This. Running burns roughly twice as many calories as walking the same distance plus has many other benefits to health. Recent research even shows how more intense exercise, ones that raise lactate in the blood, have neurological benefits as well as cardiopulmonary benefits.