Frequently Asked Questions
Which burns more calories, walking or swimming?
Swimming typically burns more calories per hour. But walking can often be sustained for longer durations, leading to more total calories burned during some workouts. The intensity of effort is also a key factor for both activities.
Is swimming or walking better for joint health?
Swimming is a no-impact exercise which reduces strain on joints, tendons and bones compared to walking. This makes swimming a preferred cross training option for runners nursing overuse injuries or people with arthritis.
Can seniors benefit from walking and swimming?
Yes. Low impact aquatic workouts and activities like water walking are excellent for older adults. And walking outdoors provides vitamin D, social interaction and helps maintain strength and function to prevent falls.
Which is easier to do regularly, swimming or walking?
For most people, walking is more convenient and accessible than swimming which requires access to a pool. The ease of going for regular walks makes it more sustainable long-term for many exercisers.
What muscles do walking and swimming work?
Brisk walking engages muscles of the lower body like calves, quads, hamstrings and glutes. The resistance of water during swimming builds upper body muscles in the chest, back, arms and shoulders.
FAQs
Which exercise burns more calories, walking or swimming?
Swimming typically burns more calories per hour. But walking can often be sustained for longer durations, leading to more total calories burned during some workouts. The intensity of effort is also a key factor.
Is swimming or walking better for people with knee arthritis?
Swimming is often better since it eliminates impact on joints that can aggravate arthritis pain. The resistance of water also improves strength and range of motion.
Can older adults benefit from walking and swimming?
Yes. Low impact aquatic workouts and outdoor walks improve cardiovascular health while building muscle to maintain mobility and reduce fall risk in seniors.
Which exercise targets more muscle groups?
Swimming works all the major muscle groups including arms, shoulders, back, chest, legs and core. Walking primarily strengthens the lower body.
Which is more convenient to do regularly?
For most people, walking is more convenient than swimming which requires access to a pool. This accessibility promotes regular exercise.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Related Coverage
Learn about the potential benefits of greens powders, including increased energy, immunity and heart health. But also understand drawbacks like oxalates and heavy metals....
Learn all about the refreshing tart flavor and healthy perks found in convenient canned grapefruit juice packages. Discover how drinking juice supports immunity....
Can Gatorade help ease the painful headaches accompanying a hangover? Learn how hydration, electrolytes, and antioxidants in sports drinks battle post-drinking misery....
A tablespoon of sugar has about 50 calories. Learn daily sugar intake recommendations, high sugar foods to avoid, ways to reduce added sugars, and healthier baking substitutions....
Certain mushrooms like lion's mane, reishi and cordyceps may help erectile dysfunction by increasing nitric oxide and testosterone. But proven medical treatments should be the priority....
Washing hair before perming is highly recommended to allow chemicals to penetrate and achieve best results. Learn when and how to properly wash hair pre-perm....
If you constantly crave coffee, it could be due to caffeine dependence, disrupting body rhythms, associating it with habits, self-medication, or enjoying the ritual....
Get 140 grams of protein in your diet with this sample meal plan including food sources, budget tips, high protein breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks....
Learn about the health benefits of medicinal mushroom extracts, including immune, gut, heart and brain support. Understand the safety, side effects and effective use....
Athletic Greens contains 7 grams of carbs per serving mainly from fruits, vegetables, mushrooms and herbs. This fiber-rich real food source offers stable energy without spiking blood sugar....