Walking vs Running: Which is Better for Joints?
For some of us, as we get older, staying active becomes less about chasing personal bests and more about finding movement that works for our bodies.
This could mean walking for some and for others it can mean running. But when your joints are part of the equation, does one come out ahead?
In short - yes. Walking is the easier option for your joints.
With that said, if you already run regularly and comfortably, that doesn't mean you have to give it up. The important thing is to understand the difference between the two and choosing what works best for you.
Walking: Less Impact, Plenty of Benefits
It's one of the easiest ways to stay active. Walking is a lower impact activity with each step placing a gentler force on your joints.
Just because you are walking though, does not mean it has to be slow or easy. A brisk pace will get the heart rate pumping and longer walks, hills or varied terrain can make it more challenging.
Walking is easy to fit into our everyday lives. Whether it be a morning walk, walking to work, lunchtime stroll, or walking around your neighbourhood can all add up. It's an activity that can become a regular part of life, because it does not require an overly complicated training plan.
Running: More Impact, More Intensity
Running, well that's different. Our body absorbs more impact when running than when walking. The joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments all have to handle greater forces, which is why running is a more demanding form of training.
As we mentioned earlier, if you are already running on a regular basis and comfortably, that may not be a problem. It can remain a rewarding part of an active lifestyle.
If joint comfort is essential for you, you can still get benefits without running. Walking can still provide an effective workout.
Walking vs. Running: What's the Difference?
It's impact vs. intensity.
| WALKING | RUNNING |
|---|---|
| Lower impact | Higher impact |
| Easier on the joints | Greater demands on the joints |
| Fits into everyday life | More physically demanding |
| Achieve intensity with pace, terrain or distance | Naturally higher intensity |
| Suitable for regular, everyday movement | Best suited to those accustomed to running |
It Doesn't Have to Be One or the Other
You don't have to stick to just one way to stay active. Walking can be a part of your everyday routine, while other activities such as swimming, running or strength training can add variety and challenge.
What matters is finding that balance that works best for you and can maintain over time.
Supporting Your Body as You Stay Active
Staying active is not just about exercise. Your body also needs nutritional support maintaining the structures that keep you moving.
Artron Collagen® Extreme has been formulated for active individuals to support their joints, muscles, and bones to help support your active lifestyle.
The formula combines 16 active ingredients like 10,000mg of hydrolysed bovine collagen, plus Vitamin C, Magnesium, Vitamin D and Glucosamine as part of our patented WELLCARTILAG® Complex.
Whether you prefer walking, running or both, consistency is key for staying mobile. Nutritional support can complement an active lifestyle as part of your everyday routine.
So Which is Better for Your Joints?
When it comes to joint health - walking is the gentler choice
In the end, the best activity is the one that will work best for you and your body, allowing you to maintain it as part of your lifestyle.