3 Reasons to Stop Running Today

By Genevieve Cunningham

When it comes to running, people tend to be firmly in two camps. You have those who love it, and you have those who despise its very existence. If you happen to be in the second group, rest assured. As it turns out, you may not have to continue running after all! Take a look at these three great reasons to give up the running and go for another fitness activity instead.

Walking Will Probably Serve Your Purpose

Unless you have a running-related goal, chances are good that walking will be just as effective. Losing weight, toning the muscles, improving cardio … these can all be done with both walking and running. It might be true that you’ll get there a little faster with running (depending on your intensity and dedication), but walking will get you there all the same.

It’s Really Hard on the Joints

The truth is that running is actually really hard on your joints. When we run, we really pound our feet on the ground. This can cause pain and even mild injury to the knees and hips. Many people who run for years and years find that, though they love running and its effects, they don’t love the stiffness and soreness that often accompanies the practice.

Your Form is Almost Certainly Not Top-Notch

When you read about calories that are burned while running, there are a lot of factors at play. Your speed, your weight, and your form all play a factor in how many calories are burned. Many online calculators depend on near perfect conditions. This means that they expect you to have near perfect form in order to burn the maximum number of calories. And unless you’re a professional, it’s unlikely that you have perfect form. So while you thought you were burning 400 calories, you may only be burning 200. In this instance, it might be easier on your body and still just as effective to walk quickly.

Running is a great exercise, and if you enjoy it, go for it! But if you aren’t keen on running, you don’t have to continue, and these prove it! Find an exercise that you really enjoy and do it every day. Whatever makes you motivated and happy is what will bring you the most success in your fitness journey.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Glendale, Calif.

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