Nordic walking vs brisk walking vs jogging: which sport should you choose?
With these three accessible activities practised by millions of people in France, the question of which to choose often arises. The answer depends on your goals, the condition of your joints and your current fitness level.
Comparison of the three activities
| Criterion | Nordic walking | Fast walking | Jogging |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muscles used | 90% of the body | 60–70% of the body | 70–80% of the body |
| Calorie expenditure/hour | 350–600 kcal | 280–350 kcal | 450–700 kcal |
| Joint impact | Very low | Low | High |
| Upper body work | Significant | Minimal | Moderate |
| Suitable for all ages | Very high | High | Medium |
| Equipment required | Poles + shoes | Shoes | Shoes |
Nordic walking: more effective than walking, gentler than jogging
Nordic walking occupies a unique position between brisk walking and jogging. It burns 20 to 46% more calories than conventional walking at the same speed, thanks to the engagement of the upper body muscles. But unlike jogging, it places very little impact on the knees and hips. It is this balance between effectiveness and joint risk that makes it the sport of choice for people over 50.
Why Nordic walking is superior to brisk walking
Brisk walking places almost no strain on the upper body muscles. Nordic walking engages the arms, shoulders, chest, back and abdominal muscles, making it a complete workout in a single activity. For the same duration of exercise, Nordic walking provides a significantly greater cardio-muscular stimulus.
When is jogging preferable?
If you are under 45, have no joint problems and your main goal is athletic performance or competition, jogging remains an excellent choice. However, if you experience pain in your knees, hips or back, or if you are overweight, Nordic walking is often recommended by physiotherapists as a therapeutic alternative.
Key takeaway: Nordic walking offers the best balance between calorie expenditure and joint protection. It surpasses brisk walking in terms of muscle engagement and has a much lower impact on the joints than jogging.