Sure,runningin place might not get you anywhere in terms of physical distance — but can it accelerate physicalfitness?
Actually, yes. Though running in place (or doinghigh kneesor butt kicks) doesn’t use all the same muscles asrunning outsideor on atreadmill, it still packs benefits.
So, if Bruce Springsteen was born to run… were you born to run in place?🏃♀️
Maybe. Let’s dive into health perks, risks, and tips for this unique running style.
All the benefits of running in place
Running in place is a legitaerobic workoutwhether you’re in a teeny apartment, hotel room, or stuck in a cubicle.
It also does a lot for your health, including:
TBH, there’s not much research on running in place specifically. Butscience saysgetting your heart pumping andsweating it outwill unleash a bounty of health and fitness perks.
What’s the diff: Is running in place the same as regular running?
Obvs, running in place isn’t exactly like running around town. So, what’s different about this small-space solution?
What about jogging in place?
Jogging in place can give you a solid workout. Plus, it’d likely be easier on your joints than going atcartoon roadrunnerspeeds.
Just like jogging on a treadmill or the sidewalk, jogging in place can …
How do you run in place in the first place?
Before you begin,warm upyour muscles with a few stretches orslower exercises. Considerjumping jacks, mountain climbers, knee kicks, orlunges.
When you’re ready, here’s how to run in place:
Try a 10-minute run followed by rest or other exercises (push-ups, lunges, burpees, etc.).
You could also turn this into aninterval training workout:
So, how long should you run in place?
Listen to your body. If you’re not experiencing any pain or strain, go ahead and run in place for as long as you’d like.
For reference, theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise for optimal health.
For some people, running in place could be the solution to squeezing in 10-minutesweat sesheswithout leaving the office. Start with 10- to 20-minute sessions, then work up from there if your body still feels good.
What about running in place for 30 minutes?
Totally fine.
As long as yourmusclesorjointsaren’t screaming, go ahead and run in place for a full 30 mins. It’s a great daily exercise in a pinch!
Are there any risks of running in place?
If you’re super new to fitness, recently endured an injury, or have individual health concerns, talk with your doc or certified physical therapist before you get started.
Running in placemightplacestresson certain muscles and joints, including those in your:
Prevent probs by using proper form and building up your routine slowly.
Is running in place better than walking?
Walking it out is pretty legit — I mean, just askUNK.
Walkingand running in place are both good options for squeezing in daily movement. Depending on your goals, you might find it easier to just take a walk.
Walkingis less stressful on the joints. It may be a better option for folks with knee or ankle probs or other injuries.
Of course, youwon’t burn as many caloriesor reap as many cardiovascular and muscular rewards when taking awalkthrough the neighborhood. But hey — it’s still way better than sitting all day.
Running in place prob won’t replace your regular gym sesh,Pilatesclass, or 5K run, but it still offers fitness benefits.
This space-saving exercise can boostcardio health,burn cals, and build strength.
Even though running in place doesn’t offer exactly the same benefits as running, it’s a good option when you can’t squeeze any other exercise into your routine. Just remember to call it a day if you experience joint or muscle pain.
Peppering your in-place running with exercises likejumping jacks,lunges, andburpeescan diversify your fitness routine and keep you fit and healthy — even when you can’t leave your apartment.
