Walking versus Jogging: Which Is Best for Seniors?

Walking and jogging are amazing activities because they provide a plethora of physical and mental benefits while also burning calories for weight loss. Plus, all you need to take part in them is a good pair of shoes and a sidewalk. If you are looking for a way to increase the number of minutes that you partake in aerobic exercise every week, you may be wondering whether walking or jogging is better for you as a senior.

The Research into Exercise for Seniors

One interesting study published in 2018 demonstrated that seniors who regularly jogged had less age-related physical decline and more exercise efficiency than did seniors who only walked. Because a decline in walking ability and efficiency is a key indicator of unhealthy aging and even morbidity in seniors, this is certainly an interesting conclusion.

Health Benefits of Walking

For these and other reasons, walking should not be thrown to the curb, so to speak. Instead, seniors should still find great peace of mind in choosing this form of exercise, knowing that they will be able to reap many benefits from this activity. Plus, they will enjoy knowing that their risk of injury is far lower with jogging than it is with walking. While they will have to walk for a longer period of time to burn the same number of calories that they would with jogging, walking is often perceived as more relaxing and enjoyable for many.