Both walking and running are great for weight loss, but when it comes to burning belly fat, which one works better? The answer depends on intensity, consistency, and your fitness goals.
Burns More Calories – Running burns two to three times more calories per minute than walking. A 30-minute run can burn 300–500 calories, depending on speed.
Boosts Metabolism – High-intensity running triggers the afterburn effect (EPOC), meaning you continue burning calories even after your workout.
Engages Core Muscles More – Running naturally engages your core, helping to tone abdominal muscles.
Higher Impact – Running can be tough on joints, especially for beginners or those with knee pain.
Easier on Joints – Walking is low-impact, making it ideal for all fitness levels.Reduces Cortisol (Stress Hormone) – Walking, especially outdoors, helps lower cortisol, which plays a role in belly fat storage.
Encourages Consistency – It’s easier to walk daily without exhaustion or injury risk.
Slower Fat Loss – Walking takes longer to burn the same calories as running.
For faster belly fat loss, running is more effective. But if you prefer a low-impact, long-term approach, walking consistently (10,000+ steps a day) combined with a healthy diet can also lead to results.
For faster belly fat loss, running is more effective. But if you prefer a low-impact, long-term approach, walking consistently (10,000+ steps a day) combined with a healthy diet can also lead to results.