Running vs. Swimming; Planet Weight Loss Point of View

Running
Running is the best physical activity for your body. And get this- it’s free! Except for a decent pair of running shoes, running does not cost you a thing. It’s cheap, easy for traveling, and convenient. It can be performed inside on a treadmill for those stormy days when you can’t even take a step and your nike’s are soaked; or outside in the park when the sun is shining so much it’s just calling your name. It does not take much talent, so anyone is able to do it. If you can walk, you can run. It’s basically walking with a little more speed and endurance. Running brings your heart rate way up. However, o yes there is a however. I am sorry to inform you that there is a downside to this physical activity loved by so many. Running can cause serious damage to your joints, especially in the knees. The constant pounding on the pavement often takes a toll on the parts of our body that keep us moving. Our body weight wears down on our knees with every bouncing step. I’m sorry to admit that for every swing of the pony tail ladies, your knees receive much pressure, wear, and tear. But don’t hang up those running shoes too soon. There are many, many people who are in their 80s and continue to run the 26.2 mile race we like to call the marathon, and they are doing just fine. “Running is mostly mental,” claim most runners. No, not mental like the hospital, but mentally motivating. It is you who will allow yourself to shut down as you wish. It’s also a way to clear your mind to stay focused on work and daily activities. The endorphins that are released when you run allow for a pleasurable physical activity that may get you hooked. How much a person weighs is the major factor in the amount of calories they burn. It’s only logical; the more you weigh, the more energy it is going to take to get your body moving, thus burning more calories. Runners who lose weight will find that their running becomes slightly easier because they are not carrying around as much excess baggage. One myth associated with running is that increases your appetite. This statement is false because it does the opposite. Running is an appetite suppressant. Because runner’s use a large amount of carbohydrates, their diet must contain about 60% of carbohydrates. Glycogen is needed by your muscles to produce energy to the rest of the body, and carbohydrates provide this glycogen. Protein is also a major part of the diet of a runner. Running helps lower your blood pressure and it strengthens the heart to help prevent heart attacks. Fat intake should be kept at a minimum because your muscles do not work as well when there is a lot of fat in your diet.

Swimming
Swimming is a great activity to tone your whole body. It works your heart, while at the same time toning your muscles in the rest of your body. It gives you a full body workout. One advantage swimming has over other forms of exercise is that it doesn’t take as large of a toll on your body. There is less wear and tear on you muscles and bones because the only resistance your body has is with the water. Swimming is ideal for all ages. There has been an increase in geriatric swimming recently. Overweight people have also developed a liking to swimming because there is less impact on their knees as compared to other physical activities involving their joints hitting the pavement.