Walking versus Jogging: Which Is Best for Seniors?

December 21, 2019February 26, 2020 SB Hospice Staff

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.

However, the study did not take into account the personal preferences of the seniors nor their initial health. Some older adults are unable to jog. They may have osteoarthritis that affects their knees or may be overweight. Others may have chronic diseases of the cardiovascular or respiratory system that limit their ability to move quickly.

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.

It is important to remember that both walking and jogging are good for physical and mental health, and both can help you stay healthy, lose weight, and retain your strength and endurance. While various reports and studies may show conflicting information about which is best for those over the age of 65, it is most important that you choose some type of aerobic exercise that you will be able to participate in regularly. For example, it is better to walk for 150 minutes per week than it is to jog for only 30. Consider the tradeoffs as well as what you most enjoy as you make your decision.