RUNNING vs WALKING

EstherRyu

When I do cardio, I alternate from power walking and jogging. The thing is I have a bad ankle - so I haven't been able to do cardio for about 3 weeks now. I want to get back on it - but what is better for joints? I've been hearing that most people jog with a wrong form - so it is very hazardous to your joints. Also - for walking - isn't it pointless if your heartrate is not at a certain level??
Is power walking just as good as jogging?
I usually power walk on the treadmill at a speed of 3.5, incline 3.5 - 10
and i usually jog at speed of 4 or 4.5, incline 4

Any advise would be appreciated

BrianSharpe

Are you using a heart rate monitor?

With a 1 mph difference between your walking and running but at a steeper incline I wouldn't be surprised to see your heart rate being fairly close. No exercise is pointless, exercising at higher intensities does burn more calories and gives your heart a better workout.

Walking is definitely lower impact but repeated studies have debunked the myth of running being bad for joints (unless you have a pre-existing problem or are seriously over weight). Having said that if you're recovering from an injury I'd probably stick to walking until you're satisfied that you're fully recovered.

rose313

I do the same thing, I sprint (my sprint is more like a slow run, I have little legs) for a couple minutes and then take a minute to powerwalk to catch my breath. I like it better than just doing a jog the whole time, I feel like my heart gets a better workout that way. I haven't noticed any joint damage on myself but I also haven't had any injuries or issues with my ankles or legs, I'm sure my form isn't perfect either. If I get really tired from running my heart stays pumping from just walking for the last few minutes of my workout. I love it.