Exercise Detox: Running Still Better Than Walking

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Even with increasing efforts to promote less intake of sugar, caffeine and alcohol, a good amount of exercise is still one of the best options. Any type of cardio exercise boosts detoxification process in the body. The toxins in the body are released through exhalation, i.e. urine and sweat, thus exercising can expel toxins faster, FebFast says.

Detox-supporting exercises include yoga and high intensity physical activities. There are exercises that are inexpensive, can be done anywhere and are timeless, like walking and running. Both are excellent cardio and detox-supporting exercises.

FitDay says that studies show both promote weight loss, sleep improvement, mood elevation, energy boost and decrease in blood pressure, cholesterol and risks of cancer, diabetes and heart diseases.

Walking is best for those who are still starting to work out or for those who have physical and health conditions. Some who are overweight choose walking over running as it is less stressful on the body. Others start with walking before slowly building up to running.

On a fitness debate on walking versus running, a growing body of research is now suggesting that running may be best for weight loss, Greatist writes.

Distance, Time and Energy

It is known that people spend more energy in running than in walking. If walking is the chosen exercise, it is expected that one has to walk a little more or eat a little less to achieve one's weight goal. 

Distance-wise, a 160-pound person burns about 100 calories per mile walking or running. However, if translated to time, a person burns more calories by running in an hour than walking.

Weight Loss

A research on NCBI suggests that runners have a better chance of maintaining their BMI and waist circumference.

Moreover, a study suggests that runners have increased levels of the hormone peptide YY, which may suppress appetite.

Running, being a high intensity exercise, will produce more endorphins, which gives runners a natural high, making them feel happy after a good run.

The Downside of Running

Because running is a high-intensity physical activity, a runner may be prone to injuries like runner's knee, hamstring strains and shin splints. It is expected that a runner should be aware and prepared against said probability of injuries.

Walking and running both have benefits, especially on the body's detoxification of toxins. The intensity of the physical activity also varies, based on one's weight goals and type of detox-supporting exercise. While running may seem to be the best option, it is suggested that the choice between both be made based on one's needs and preferences. Consulting a medical expert before taking on any new exercise routine is also highly-advised.