Running for exercise effects everyone differently. Those who love it, do it often and enjoy the challenge that it brings. Yet, there are others who like running but can't handle the impact that comes along with it. There are still others who can't stand running, never have and never will. Walking is great for exercising, but for some, it isn't enough in terms of aerobic activity as a moderate pace may not get the heart rate up enough.
Race Walking as An Alternative
You have probably seen race walking (speed walking) before. It may look kind of funny to watch someone racewalk. It appears as though the person is ready to take off running at any second but never does.
The history of race walking dates back to 1880. It was developed as one of the original track and field events of the first meeting of the English Amateur Athletics Association. The rules of race walking are basic. It comes down to two main things:
- The athlete's back toe cannot leave the ground until the heel of the front foot has touched
- The supporting leg must straighten from the point of contact with the ground and remain straightened until the body passes over it.
Benefits of Race Walking
Race walking offers a number of benefits for people who already enjoy walking but want to take it up a notch. Some of these benefits include:
- Low impact compared to running
- Burns more calories (120 - 130 calories per mile) than walking
- Great upper body workout (technique requires pumping arms at higher speeds)
- Good exercise for fun or competition
Race Walking Video
What do you think? Are you a fan of race walking or are you a runner?
Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racewalking
http://health.howstuffworks.com/how-to-racewalk1.htm
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I am not a very big fan of running because of how it impacts my bad knee and it causes aches on my back, but race walking is definitely a step above normal walking. I see many people do that on the treadmills at the gym, but then there are always some others who go to the gym for an hour a day just to walk regularly on it because there is a tv screen right in front of their faces. Funny, but exercise is exercise.
I’m a runner and a bodybuilder (yes, you can do both! check out http://worldfitnessnetwork.com/2009/03/the-running-bodybuilder-85-tips/ ).
I couldn’t imagine “race walking”. If I had an injury that prevented me from running, I guess I’d try it.
But 120 calories per mile huh? That seems way high. Even running doesn’t burn that many calories, from the research I’ve seen.
I have a hard time running, but walking is a lot easier on my body. I might try some race walking, it seems like it is more suited for what my body needs.
Walking is a vital ingredient in my overall fitness regime. Running excessively can have an effect on joints, especially for older people. Keep on walking!