Treadmill or the open road?

Walking is one of the best workouts. You’ve heard it from nearly everyone - from the fitness trainer to your doctor to your 70-year-old friendly neighbour who is fit as a fiddle. But should you be walking / going for jogs in your neighbourhood or hitting the treadmill at the gym? There are those who adore the outdoors and those who prefer the treadmill. But which is healthier?

“Most exercises done freehand are better. Jogging or walking is definitely more beneficial on the road/ground,” says Somesh Kamra, Mumbai-based certified personal trainer.

More effort, more gain

“The ground on a treadmill is already moving. Whereas, while walking on the ground, you have to put pressure to get going,” he explains. Since the belt is moving on its own, lesser effort is being put and therefore, lesser calories are being burnt. Whereas, while walking on the ground you are lifting more muscles against it to gain momentum.
Kamra says that the preferred order of choice should be grass, sand and then asphalt/cement. Grass, since it provides the best cushion for your ankles and knees. Grass acts as a good shock absorber. Sand is second best when it comes to providing a cushion to your joints and then the cement track.

Posture perfect

Moreover, walking on the treadmill could affect your posture too. Holding onto the railings while on the treadmill could give you a slouch. Whereas, on the road or grass you automatically correct your posture.
Temperature is another important factor that affects how many calories you burn. “Most gyms have a set temperature that is often cooler. Your body will burn lesser calories in a cooler temperature,” says Kamra. Your body will take longer to warm up, he adds.

Remember these

“You need to have a good pair of running shoes and socks before you start walking/jogging,” says Leena Mogre, Director, Leena Mogre Fitness.

She also says one should not forget to warm-up, stretch and later cool-down post walking. “Finish your walk with a drink of lime squeezed in water. It will help you replenish all the nutrients lost,” says Kamra.

So, now that you know all about walking, choose wisely. Happy walking!

Source:http://www.idiva.com