Will Running or Walking Help You Lose Weight More Quickly?
To lose weight, you must expend more calories than you consume. Running burns more calories than walking. Successful weight loss, however, requires consistent exercise as well as a healthy diet. Although running burns calories more quickly, walking provides a successful path to weight loss for some people.
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Caloric Expenditure
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Walking at a pace of 2 miles an hour burns 183 calories per hour for a 160-pound person, according to the Mayo Clinic. A 200-pound person burns 228 calories. Running at a pace of 8 miles an hour burns 986 calories per hour for a 160-pound person and 1,229 calories for a 200-pound person.
Considerations
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People who find running uncomfortable or unpleasant may stick to a walking exercise plan better. Successful weight loss requires consistent exercise. Aim for 60 to 90 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, according to the CDC. Walking quickly burns more calories, making weight loss more likely, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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More Exercise Options
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If you want to lose weight, you don't have to walk or run. Activities such as aerobics, dancing, rollerblading, bicycling, skiing and swimming also burn calories. Find an activity you enjoy.
Eating Well
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Eating well also is essential to losing weight. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and pay attention to portion sizes. Cutting 500 calories from your diet each day will help you lose approximately 1 pound each week, according to the CDC.
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