Difference Between Jogging & Running

The differences between jogging and running are not clear-cut. In fact, the words are often used interchangeably. According to the Better Health Channel, the main difference between running and jogging is intensity. Runners sometimes jog for a while before a race or a long run to get their muscles loose.

Definition

In an article for the BBCSport, conditioning coach Mike Antoniades defines jogging as "running at speeds of less than 6 mph." Others see jogging as something you do to stay in shape or for fun, while running is something you do if you're participating in a race.

Form

Joggers have more of a bouncy movement when they move, while runners have a steady rhythm that includes longer steps and faster arm swing. When you're running, the position at which your foot strikes the ground is very important. The ball of your foot should strike the ground first, not the heel. Although the same is true when you're jogging, a mistake when you're running is more likely to cause an injury since your foot is hitting the ground more frequently and harder.

Effects on the Body

If you run - that is, if you go at least 6 mph - your feet will touch the ground more often than if you jog. According to a 2010 article in "The New York Daily News," recreational jogging should not harm healthy knees. Running, on the other hand, can be tough on your knees, especially if you do it on uneven terrain or for long stretches.

Calorie Burning

As for calorie burning, running is more effective than jogging. The speed at which you run also affects calorie burning. A 155-lb. person will burn 563 calories running an hour at 5 mph, 880 calories running at 7.5 mph and over 1,000 calories at 9 mph or faster. Jogging will burn about 492 calories per hour.