Is Walking Better Exercise Than Bicycling?

A 200-pound individual walking two miles per hour will burn 228 calories.

Walking and bicycling are calorie-burning activities. When performed at a leisurely pace, bicycling burns more calories than slow or moderately paced walking. Both forms of exercise have the potential to cause injury if performed incorrectly or excessively.

Calories Burned

When performed at a leisurely pace, bicycling burns more calories than slow or moderate walking. A 200-pound person riding a bike at less than 10 miles per hour will burn 364 calories. The same individual will burn 228 calories walking at two miles per hour or 346 calories at 3.5 miles per hour.

Potential for Injury

Walking is a weight-bearing activity, which may increase your opportunity to develop injuries like stress fractures, shin splints or inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Bicycling is not a weight-bearing exercise, but its repetitive motion may lead to cramping or knee or foot problems.

Proper Form and Fit

Use good posture while walking and add hand or leg weights to your walking routine to burn more calories and build strength. Get fitted for a bicycle to reduce instances of back and leg strain. Talk to a physician before starting any new exercise routine.

References

• Bicycle Source: Cycling Injuries and Treatment
• Merck Manual home Edition: Lower Leg Injuries: Sports Injuries
• MayoClinic.com: Exercise for Weight Loss: Calories Burned in One Hour