When trying to lose weight, the first thing that people generally do is go on crash diets and increase the amount of their exercise. Instinctively, people know that becoming active will help to reshape their bodies and that limiting their food intake will help them have more control over their weight. In fact, these two most basic steps are so essential to weight loss that many nutritionist and physical fitness experts will tell you that unless you make a consorted effort to incorporate exercise and food moderation into your lifestyle, your weight loss will be impaired.  

Running and walking are two of the most basic forms of exercise for the human body. In fact, because humans spend so much time being mobile, the activity can seem like it’s hardly exercise at all. After all, you spend so much time on your feet as you shop, walk around your house and continue through your workday that it can be hard to imagine that walking alone can help to slim your body.  

However, it is important to note that while everyday walking may not have a tremendous impact on the overall shape and size of your figure, exercise or aerobic walking can have an impact that rivals running. Walking is known to be a sport that changes the shape of your body long-term and can quickly help you lose unwanted fat. Running, on the other hand, is considered to be a strenuous activity that may or may not have a lasting effect on your body. Sound confusing? It is. But here’s some more information about each common activity that could help you get a handle on your exercise patterns: 

Walking
Walking is a light aerobic or anaerobic activity, depending on the surface, incline and energy that you put into your walk. Because walking helps you maintain a low heart rate, your heart will reap the benefits of the activity for a longer period of time than if you were to exert your body. By working your body for a long amount of time at a low level of strain, you are helping to shape your muscles into long, sinuous organs that will keep your blood flowing and oxygenated throughout the day.  

Running
Running is most effective for weight loss if you run long distance. However, if you choose to run a short distance, then you should know that the activity may be equally as beneficial as a vigorous walk. Because running gets your heart rate up for a short amount of time, the exercise is only effective while you are actually maintaining the activity. However, as soon as you stop running, your heart rate will drop back down to its normal level and your body will not continue to pump blood as effectively throughout your body as it did during your run.  

Walking and running are two highly effective ways to lose weight and keep the weight off. If you are considering adding either to your weight loss routine, make sure you understand how each effect your body. You may be surprised that the results that each activity has the potential to yield.

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