The difference between jogging and running can be reduced to a few defining factors, such as pace, movement, and mindset . Running, for example, requires longer steps, while jogging is characterized by a rebound movement. Several experts and some studies have evaluated the differences. One study in particular showed that jogging can be better for your health than running at a faster pace.
Jogging vs running
Jogging and running, both considered aerobic exercises, are often used interchangeably, but take a closer look and you will be able to spot the differences. For starters, running is faster . The key difference between running and jogging has to do with intensity. Running requires more effort from the muscles, heart, and lungs. In other words, runners generally have a higher level of fitness.
We could say that the differences between running and jogging go beyond the physical. Runners may also have a different mindset . For example, runners may be more goal-oriented, while joggers have a more informal approach. They can be happy to stay at a leisurely pace, while runners are wary of their speed and commit to a specific goal.
Jogging is better for health
Now you know that running and jogging have their differences, but is one better than the other? The answer: yes. A 2015 study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, found that jogging can add years to our lives, while running doesn’t.
The study followed 5,000 participants and analyzed their rhythm. Participants’ health and mortality were followed for the next 12 years. The results: 28 of the joggers and 128 of the runners died. The researchers concluded that moderate intensity runners had a lower risk of mortality than strenuous runners.
Furthermore, the fact that sedentary participants had the same death rate as fast-paced runners suggests that the benefits of aerobic exercise reach a certain limit , after which they decrease. The bottom line: Going for moderate intensity jogging a few times a week can improve life expectancy, among other benefits.
Differences in body movement
One of the main differences between jogging and running has to do with body movement. Jogging has a rebound cadence, while running consists of longer steps and faster arm movements . Because running requires longer strides and the accompanying arm movements, it often requires more physical effort.
Jogging, on the other hand, can be compared to walking fast. The impact on the joints and muscles is less hard. Plus, you may be able to keep running longer distances and times.
What are the common benefits?
Despite their differences, running and jogging have a lot in common, starting with the health benefits:
- Muscle strengthening
- Help maintain weight
- Burning calories to lose weight
- Muscle strengthening
- Build strong bones
They also overlap in several other respects, including sports materials (sneakers) and safety precautions (using plenty of sunscreen and staying hydrated).
