Most people wonder what the difference is between jogging and running. To be truthful, there really is not much of one. But there are some distinctions that can be noted. For example, when I go jogging, I am not looking to win anything. I am simply exercising for my own pleasure. To feel the power of my legs as they automatically push me forward on the sidewalk. While jogging, I am free to think, to day dream, to wonder about the random things that cross my mind. Jogging is simple. There need not be any motivation; you just do it because you can; because it feels good to be moving at a rapid yet pleasurable pace. I enjoy jogging down my driveway. It is pleasant to jog right before sundown, when the air is beginning to get crisp and the wind is cool. I am free to simply exist, to feel the wind swishing through my ponytail, and to feel the power beneath my hips that carries me along the quiet road. Jogging is a blissful time for me.
Running woman (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Running, for me, is different. I have a goal, and I want to get there as quick as I can. Running is a determined effort. You focus more, instead of letting your mind wander. Running is a more concentrated effort of jogging, which is why most people have a hard time distinguishing between the two. However, when you are running, you a not only going faster across the pavement, but everything in your body is moving faster too. Your heart is working harder, as well as your lungs. You are taking deeper breaths and usually your stride covers more ground with each step. It is simple and precise, and a lot of the time quite enjoyable. When I’m running I am focused more on my technique. How is my breathing? Is my stride equal? And of course the constant calculations for how fast I am able to go in such amount of time. Running, for me, takes a more focused approach. I usually set a goal and a time limit for myself in order to reach it.
So, What is the Difference Between Jogging and Running?
However, if you would like to know the specifics between jogging and running, but do not have the time to go blitzing around the city; you might want to give it a try doing it in place. Stand in one spot and jog for one minute. Notice anything? Your heart rate is elevated slightly, endorphins are swishing around in your body, and you feel slightly tired. But it all feels a little exhilarating. Now, while standing in one spot, run for one minute. Now what did you notice? Of course your heart rate elevated, more endorphins are pumping, and you may feel a bit more tired. Your breathing is also heavier. But what was the main difference? You went faster! So, now that we have established that running means going faster than jogging, which you probably already knew, how do we decide just how much faster running is than jogging? You do not need to email a scientist or even ask an athletic director to figure this out. You can simply do a quick test to know if you are running or if you are jogging.
Jogging and running are both beneficial to your health; one simply requires a little more stamina than the other. So how can you tell if you are running or jogging? Well first you need to make time to figure this dilemma out. Then try this, go outside, or on your local treadmill, and starting jogging or running at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Do this for 1 mile. How long did it take you? If you went over nine minutes to complete it, you were jogging. Conversely, if it took you less than nine minutes, you were running. Both require your muscles to move in different ways when compared to your normal walking pace. And both are great ways to lose weight! It does not matter which one you choose to do. Simply moving around quickly is a great start. Whether you go a mile down the road and back, or enter into a marathon through a city, running or jogging, either will be beneficial to you and your body.
Whatever You Choose Between Jogging and Running, Just Do It!
So now that you know the difference, which one do you prefer? Are you a jogger? Do you like to go at a leisurely pace down the sidewalk? Or do you prefer to run, to have a goal? In truth, jogging and running are both great in their own respects. One is not better than the other. And one person is not better for choosing to run rather than jog. It is up to you, the individual, as to what suits you and your life style best. As for me, I like to go jogging. I find there is less pressure in jogging and that it suits my laid back lifestyle. As a mother, it allows me to release some of the days tension from dealing with the never ending laundry to the multitude of “why?” questions. But that is just me. Perhaps you’ll like running instead? Whatever you choose to do, just do it! It does not take much time, and you do not need any equipment, though a good pair of sneakers would be a good start! Running or jogging, both can be fun and exhilarating. It can help you lose weight, and build up strength in your heart and lungs and many of your leg muscles. You do not need a license to do it; all you need is to take a little time out of your day. But the most important thing when running or jogging it to make sure that you are having fun! What is the point of moving your body if you are not having fun with it? It’s easy and should be a relaxing experience. So, lace up those sneakers, take a good deep breath, and just go!