Jogging Vs Running – What’s The Difference?

Natalie Cecconi
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Typical Definition of Jogging

Jogging implies a slow and easy type of running. Jogging is a method of aerobic training at an intensity level of 50-70% of your maximum heart rate. The key with jogging is to not overdo it and to not put unnecessary stress or strain on the body.

The point is to maintain your natural rhythm as you move slowly along. It’s all about being at one with the road.

However, there’s no strict definition of what jogging is and how fast or slow it should be. For most people, jogging is running at a pace of about 7.5 to 8 mph. You will, however, find joggers all along the speed and intensity scale. But by and large, people tend to jog at a natural pace that’s neither too slow or too fast.

Jogging can help you get in better shape and lose weight. If you love to do it, then go ahead. However, jogging alone will not help you break any records. Hence, if you want to become a better runner and participate in distance races, running is a good option for you to consider.

Why And When People Use the Word “Jogger”

There is no difference! As a matter of fact, the two words are considered synonyms.

You will hear the word “jogger” being used in different contexts. Sometimes, you will use it to refer to someone that likes running short distances. While at other times, the word gets used to describe someone who is running for exercise.

You will also hear the word “jogger” being used to call runners “newbies”. This is very common in the running community. Jogger is a very casual and friendly way of referring to a runner.

You will hear different levels of commitment when someone is using the word “jogger”. Sometimes you will hear it as “casual jogger” meaning someone who runs occasionally, for fun, and that’s about it.

While at other times, it’s used to refer to “serious joggers” meaning someone who is into running or jogging for a considerable amount of time on a regular basis.

History of the Term Jogging

The word jogging was first used in the 1800s to indicate a slow, relaxed type of walking. It came about as a result of the fast paced popular sport of racing at the time.

After the second world war, the term jogging was used to refer to the sport of long distance running.

Jogging is considered a form of cardio that is fun as well as inexpensive!

One of the biggest drawcards of jogging is that it can be done by almost anyone at any age. It is also a great form of exercise because it can be done without any special equipment. Fitness experts also love jogging because it does not directly stress the joints and can be done for extended periods of time without causing exhaustion.

Running Versus Jogging: Differences

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: You don’t have to be an elite runner, marathoner, or triathlete to enjoy the many benefits physical activity brings.

You can have a great time running or jogging for fun or recreation.

When you think of jogging and running, you might think of how far or how many times you can do it per day.

Each one of them will make you earn your sweat. Yet running and jogging offer something different – and so you should choose which one is best for your own personal needs and your running or jogging ability.

Here’s what you need to know about the differences between running and jogging, so you can make this important decision.

Intensity

The main difference between jogging and running is intensity. While jogging and running both use the same muscles, the intensity differs. I use the term intensity to refer to the effort it takes you to perform a certain activity.

A jog is slower than your standard run. In fact, a jog is often considered to be about half the speed of a run. A jog does not increase your heart rate as quickly as a run does, but it does increase your heart rate more than walking does. A jog is typically at about 50% of your max heart rate, while running can be up to 90% of your maximum heart rate.

To picture the difference in intensity, think about what your breathing sounds like during each activity. When you’re jogging, you generally breathe deeply and exhale fully during each step. You may start out breathing hard, but as you become accustomed to your jogging pace, you can catch your breath a bit. You breathe deeply, but your breathing is more continuous than it is during a run.

When you’re running, your breathing is a lot more intense. You tend to take quicker breaths with a lot less air escaping your lungs. While your breathing may begin more slowly, it will soon become more spaced out. Each breath you take lasts longer and is more of a struggle to take in.

Mindset

Jogging is a state of mind. It is a way of moving.

When you jog, your body follows your mind and all of your mental energy is focused on that movement.

Running, on the other hand, is a state of being. It is your body following your mind and your mental energy is focused on your destination.

Jogging is an excuse to be lazy, and running is a means to an end.

Jogging helps you slow down and stop being busy.

Running speeds you up and helps you get things done.

Jogging takes you to the edge of your comfort zone.

Running pushes you to break barriers and set new limits.

Jogging is easier to do, but running is far more rewarding.

Jogging is going in the same direction.

Running is going anywhere you want.

Jogging makes you happy.

Running makes you free.

Jogging is meant for those who are content with where they are.

Running is for those who want to get somewhere else.

Jogging is a comfortable mode of transportation.

Running is an adventure.

Jogging is a pastime.

Running is a passion.

Jogging is an excuse to be lazy.

Running is a reason to be happy.

Jogging is about conserving energy.

Running Versus Jogging: Similarities

Jogging is a form of running, but unlike sprinting, it is a low-intensity, prolonged running exercise. Even though you might be inclined to think that the difference doesn’t matter too much, when it comes to running, that may in fact be the case.

If you want to get into shape or lose weight and want to run, then you might be better off jogging rather than sprinting.

Sticking with the jogging form of running for a longer time can help you burn more calories. Jogging on the treadmill can also cover and stress more muscle groups.

Whereas running is a more solitary sport, jogging can be seen as a social activity as well. It allows runners to chat or share training and jogging tips with each other.

Another difference between running and jogging is the intensity of the exercise. When you jog, you are running at a slower, less intense pace. You are more likely to breathe more deeply than when you run, and your heart rate will also be slower. Your heart will also do more work when jogging than if you are running.

Semantics

I’ve often seen confusion expressed in forums on exactly what differentiates jogging from running. Sometimes, I fear that this confusion can be carried over into personal fitness habits. One person has gone so far as to ask: “Jogger VS. Runner…Which one are you?”

I’m here to set the record straight with a short and simple explanation for the distinction between jogging and running.

Jogging Definition

American Heritage’s Dictionary definition of jog is “to go at a slow, steady pace.” That’s pretty straightforward.

Running Definition

There are many aspects of running, including the ease or difficulty of the activity, the distance you will run, and finally, your speed, all of which are of varying strenuousness, intensity, and output.

If our goal is to be effective in our fitness program and be efficient in the use of our energy, rather than just think about the number of miles we cover, it’s helpful to consider these different components of running and choose carefully what suits our goals for the workout.

Gear

Jogging and running are two different ways of moving that rely on different forms of locomotion.

Jogging involves climbing steps, while running involves jumping in the air mid-stride.

On the other hand, there is another form of physical activity that most people find difficult to categorize into one of these groups, and that’s the skateboard or longboard. It’s a wheeled device that you stand on and ride, used for getting around.

There are no rules as to what you can classify as a jogging or running shoe. A running shoe is specialized to give runners the efficient and fastest movement possible, but that doesn’t mean that other shoes can’t be used.

So the big question is, what makes a shoe a good one for jogging or running?

SHOE PROPERTIES

The first thing you want to look at is the type of shoe. There are three main types, each with unique characteristics that align it with either jogging or running.

The first category is called a neutral shoe. It’s how the shoes were originally designed. They have enough cushioning under the heel to make the ride smooth but balanced cushioning throughout to maintain a healthy gait cycle.

Health Benefits

Jogging and running are both burn calories, but there are lots of other differences between running and jogging.

Generally, people who are not physically fit are encouraged to start jogging. Jogging is considered the easiest exercise for beginners. Jogging is easier on the joints than running – jogging does not involve sudden acceleration and deceleration, which is why it is easier on your joints. It is also important to ensure that your lower leg and hip muscles are strong enough to handle jogging.

You can easily learn jogging. It takes 2-3 weeks to get a hang of good jogging form.

The steps need to be slow and smooth, with brakes taken at regular intervals.

This also involves a proper form that will ensure the health and safety of the jogger.

There are training programs available in gyms that help joggers get used to jogging while gradually increasing the duration, number of steps and speed across different intervals.

Jogging helps increase your endurance, improves your health and speeds up weight loss.

Joggers tend to have lower body fat content than runners.

Jogging helps you improve your breathing, burn calories, lose weight, prevent heart disease, strengthen bones, prevent back pain, strengthen ligaments and tendons, promote flexibility, and help control anxiety.

Final Thoughts