Why You Should Stop Jogging and Sprint Instead
By Genevieve Cunningham
Running is an incredible exercise. Even those who hate the act of running have to admit that it's a great way to work the body and get in better shape. But there's certainly no doubt that creating a habit of running is incredibly difficult. It's stressful on the body, hard on the lungs, and sometimes feels a bit boring. Unless you have a great playlist, beautiful scenery, or just possess a love for pounding the pavement, running can get old. If this sounds like you, but you want to maintain the running workout, take a look at these great reasons to drop the jog and go for a quick sprint instead.
It's Faster
The truth is that sprinting takes a lot less time. Because it requires a burst of quick energy, you’ll only be able to sprint for a fraction of the time that you would be able to jog. This makes it a great choice for those who find running, or exercise in general, boring or dull. You’ll get the workout over with quickly, but still be huffing, puffing, and challenged by the end.
It Builds Different Muscles
Sprinting forces our fast twitch muscle fibers to kick into gear. Though some people have more of these fibers than others (and are therefore faster), everyone has the ability to work these areas of the body. Sprinting may help grow the quads and glutes more quickly than jogging as well. While jogging will definitely sculpt this area, sprinting gives the area more power and muscle definition for a slightly different look and body composition.
It Burns More Calories
Because sprinting requires a burst of quick energy, it burns calories more quickly than a slow jog. Depending on your speed and individual form, you may be able to burn the same number of calories in 10 minutes of sprinting versus 30 minutes of jogging. Bottom line? It gets the job done faster. If you’re interested in running quickly and getting it over with, sprinting may be the perfect way to do it.
There's no doubt that running is good for both the body and mind. It's challenging, requires focus and dedication, and sculpts the body like no other workout can. When you’re ready to take it up a notch, add sprinting and get your health and fitness moving in the right direction faster than ever.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Orange, Calif.