Is cycling better than walking?

Is cycling better than walking? Whether cycling is “better” than walking depends on your specific goals and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Calories Burned

Cycling: Burns more calories per hour compared to walking, especially at higher intensities. You can burn between 400 to 700 calories per hour depending on speed and resistance.
Walking: Burns fewer calories, typically around 200 to 400 calories per hour depending on speed and body weight.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Cycling: Provides a more intense cardiovascular workout, particularly at higher speeds or on challenging terrain.
Walking: Can improve cardiovascular health, but it’s generally less intense compared to cycling.

Impact on Joints

Cycling: Low-impact activity, which makes it better for people with joint issues.
Walking: Also low-impact, but over long distances or on hard surfaces, it could put strain on the joints.

Muscle Engagement

Cycling: Engages more muscles in the lower body, such as quads, hamstrings, and calves. It also helps strengthen the core and back.
Walking: Primarily works the lower body but doesn’t engage muscles as intensely as cycling.

Accessibility

Cycling: Requires a bicycle and suitable terrain. It may also require a bit of investment in equipment and maintenance.
Walking: Needs no special equipment and can be done almost anywhere, making it more accessible.

Convenience and Safety

Cycling: You can travel greater distances faster, making it a good option for commuting or exploring. However, it comes with some safety risks if done in traffic.
Walking: Slower but safer and more relaxing, often ideal for shorter distances.

Longevity and Overall Health

For health and longevity, both cycling and walking are excellent choices. Walking can be more sustainable for daily habits due to its convenience, while cycling is a more vigorous exercise that can provide a better cardiovascular workout and calorie burn.

For an optimal approach, a combination of both can provide variety, help prevent injury, and keep you engaged.