Cycling or walking: Which is better for daily fitness?
What's the story
Cycling and walking are two of the most popular forms of exercise that can be easily added to your daily routine. Both have their own benefits, making them suitable for different fitness goals and lifestyles. While cycling is often seen as a high-intensity workout, walking is considered a low-impact exercise. Knowing the difference between these two can help you choose the right one for your fitness journey.
#1
Calorie burning potential
Cycling tends to burn more calories than walking in a shorter span of time. A person weighing around 70 kg can burn approximately 400 calories cycling at a moderate pace for an hour. On the other hand, the same person would burn roughly 300 calories walking briskly for an hour. If calorie burning is your primary goal, cycling may be more effective.
#2
Impact on joints
Walking is a low-impact exercise, which is easier on the joints than cycling. It is perfect for people with joint problems or those recovering from injuries. Cycling also has a low-impact nature but may not be as gentle as walking due to the potential strain from pedaling uphill or fast speeds.
#3
Cost considerations
Walking is practically free since all you need is a good pair of shoes. Cycling, on the other hand, requires an initial investment in a bicycle and safety gear like helmets and lights. Maintenance costs such as tire replacements or tune-ups should also be considered when budgeting for cycling as an exercise option.
#4
Accessibility and convenience
Walking is accessible to most people, requiring little preparation or equipment beyond comfortable shoes. It can be done almost anywhere at any time, making it convenient for those with busy schedules or limited access to facilities like gyms or parks with cycling paths. Cycling may require more planning regarding route selection and safety measures but offers flexibility in terms of distance covered quickly compared to walking.