Walking is a popular form of exercise that offers numerous health benefits. However, with the rise of technology, people are finding new ways to incorporate walking into their daily routines. One such method is walking in place, which involves mimicking the motion of walking while remaining stationary. This raises the question: is walking in place the same as walking?
Walking in place has become a popular alternative to traditional walking, especially for those who have limited space or mobility.
It involves lifting the legs and swinging the arms as if walking, but without actually moving forward.
While it may seem like a simple and effective way to get some exercise, many people wonder if it provides the same benefits as walking outdoors or on a treadmill.
To answer this question, it is important to examine the mechanics of walking and how they are affected by walking in place. By understanding the similarities and differences between the two, individuals can determine which method of walking is best suited for their needs and goals.
Understanding Walking in Place
Walking in place is a form of movement where an individual walks without actually moving forward. This type of movement is often used as a low-impact exercise or warm-up before engaging in more strenuous physical activity.
It is also commonly used in marching band and military training as a way to practice marching in place without actually moving forward.
While walking in place may seem like a simple and straightforward activity, there are some key differences between this type of movement and traditional walking.
When walking in place, the individual is not actually moving forward, which means that there is no forward momentum to help propel the body forward. This can make the activity more challenging and require more effort to maintain a consistent pace.
Another important consideration when it comes to walking in place is the surface on which the activity is performed. While traditional walking can be done outdoors on a variety of surfaces, walking in place is typically done indoors on a flat, stable surface such as a carpeted floor or exercise mat.
This is because walking in place requires a stable surface to maintain balance and prevent injury.
There are also different variations of walking in place, including house walking and indoor walking. House walking involves walking in place while holding onto a stable object such as a chair or countertop for balance.
Indoor walking, on the other hand, typically involves using a treadmill or other exercise equipment to simulate the sensation of walking while remaining in one place.
Overall, walking in place can be a useful form of low-impact exercise or warm-up activity for individuals looking to improve their physical fitness. With proper technique and attention to safety, this type of movement can be a valuable addition to any exercise routine.
Comparing Walking in Place and Regular Walking
Walking in place is a physical activity that involves walking while remaining stationary. This can be done indoors or outdoors, and it is often used as a form of exercise or as a way to reach a daily step goal. Regular walking, on the other hand, involves moving forward while walking and can be done outdoors or indoors.
When it comes to the benefits of walking, both walking in place and regular walking can have positive effects on overall health. Walking in place can be a convenient and accessible way to get some physical activity, especially if the weather is not conducive to outdoor walking. Regular walking, particularly outdoor walking, can provide additional benefits such as exposure to fresh air and nature.
One potential drawback of walking in place is that it may not be as effective at burning calories as regular walking. This is because regular walking involves moving the body forward, which requires more energy and engages more muscles than walking in place.
However, walking in place can still be a useful way to get some physical activity and can be a good option for those who have mobility issues or are recovering from an injury.
In terms of step goals, both walking in place and regular walking can help individuals reach their daily step goals. Walking in place can be a useful tool for those who work at a desk or have a sedentary job, as it allows them to get some physical activity without leaving their workspace.
Regular walking, particularly outdoor walking, can provide additional benefits such as exposure to fresh air and nature.
Both walking in place and regular walking can have positive effects on overall health and can help individuals reach their daily step goals. While regular walking may provide additional benefits, walking in place can be a convenient and accessible way to get some physical activity.
Ultimately, the best type of walking for an individual will depend on their personal preferences, location, and physical abilities.
Physical Aspects of Walking in Place
Walking in place is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, anytime, and without any equipment. It is a simple way to increase physical activity and burn calories.
However, the question arises: is walking in place the same as walking? In this section, we will explore the physical aspects of walking in place and compare them to walking.
Calories Burned
Walking in place burns calories, but the number of calories burned depends on the intensity and duration of the exercise. According to a study, a person weighing 160 pounds can burn around 150 calories by walking in place for 30 minutes at a moderate-intensity level. However, walking outdoors or on a treadmill burns more calories due to the resistance and incline.
Muscles Worked
Walking in place engages several muscles, including the hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, calves, ankles, and hip flexors. However, walking outdoors or on a treadmill engages more muscles due to the terrain and incline.
Heart Rate
Walking in place can increase the heart rate, but it may not be as effective as walking outdoors or on a treadmill. According to a study, a person weighing 160 pounds can achieve a moderate-intensity heart rate by walking in place for 30 minutes. However, walking outdoors or on a treadmill can achieve a higher heart rate due to the terrain and incline.
Joints
Walking in place is a low-impact exercise that puts less stress on the joints compared to walking outdoors or on a treadmill. It is a suitable exercise for people with joint problems or injuries.
Endurance and Muscle Power
Walking in place can improve endurance and muscle power, but it may not be as effective as walking outdoors or on a treadmill. Walking outdoors or on a treadmill engages more muscles and requires more effort, which can lead to greater improvements in endurance and muscle power.
Walking in place is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, anytime, and without any equipment. It can burn calories, engage muscles, increase heart rate, and improve endurance and muscle power. However, walking outdoors or on a treadmill may be more effective due to the resistance and incline.
Mental Health Benefits
Walking in place can have many mental health benefits. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Walking in place can also improve mood and increase overall feelings of well-being.
Studies have shown that walking, in general, can increase the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. This means that walking in place can have similar benefits to walking outdoors or on a treadmill.
In addition, walking in place can be a convenient way to incorporate physical activity into a daily routine. It can be done at any time, in any location, without the need for special equipment or a gym membership.
This can make it easier for individuals to maintain a regular exercise routine, which can have positive effects on mental health.
Overall, while walking in place may not provide the same physical benefits as walking outdoors or on a treadmill, it can still have significant mental health benefits. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, improve mood, and increase overall feelings of well-being.
Walking in Place for Weight Loss
Walking in place is a convenient and accessible way to get moving and burn calories. It can be done anywhere, at any time, and requires no special equipment. While it may not be the same as walking outdoors or on a treadmill, it can still provide a good workout and contribute to weight loss goals.
One of the benefits of walking in place is that it can be done while watching TV, reading a book, or working at a desk. This makes it easy to incorporate into a daily routine and can help increase overall physical activity levels.
According to the American Council on Exercise, walking in place can burn up to 135 calories in just 30 minutes for a person who weighs 125 pounds. For someone who weighs 185 pounds, that number increases to 200 calories in 30 minutes. This makes it an effective way to burn calories and contribute to weight loss efforts.
While walking in place may not specifically target belly fat or excess body fat, it can contribute to overall weight loss and a reduction in body fat percentage when combined with a healthy diet. It is important to note that weight loss is not solely dependent on exercise, but also on diet and overall lifestyle habits.
Walking in place can be a convenient and effective way to burn calories and contribute to weight loss goals. It may not be the same as walking outdoors or on a treadmill, but it can still provide a good workout and help increase overall physical activity levels.
Incorporating Walking in Place into Your Routine
Walking in place can be a great addition to your workout routine, especially if you are looking for a low-impact, total body workout that you can do at home. Incorporating this exercise into your fitness journey is easy and can be done at any time of day, regardless of the weather or your fitness level.
One way to incorporate walking in place into your routine is to use it as a form of interval training. Start by walking in place for 10 minutes at a moderate intensity, then increase the intensity for the next 5 minutes by adding in some high-knee lifts or side steps.
After the high-intensity interval, return to a moderate intensity for 10 minutes before repeating the cycle. This type of workout can help you burn calories and improve your cardiovascular health.
Another way to incorporate walking in place is to use it as a way to reach your daily step goal of 10,000 steps. By walking in place for 30 minutes, you can easily add 3,000-4,000 steps to your day. This can be especially helpful for those who work at a desk all day and struggle to get enough movement in their day-to-day lives.
If you are looking to incorporate strength training into your workout, you can also add push-ups or crunches in between sets of walking in place. This can help you build muscle while also improving your cardiovascular health.
Finally, if you enjoy dancing or stretching, you can also incorporate those activities into your walking in place routine. By adding in some dance moves or stretches, you can make your workout more fun and engaging.
Walking in place is a great way to add movement to your day and improve your fitness level. By incorporating it into your workout routine, you can enjoy a low-impact, total body workout that can help you reach your fitness goals.
Walking in Place and Cardiovascular Health
Walking is a great way to improve cardiovascular health. It gets the heart pumping, increases blood flow, and improves the body’s ability to use oxygen. But is walking in place the same as walking?
Studies have shown that walking in place can be just as beneficial as walking outside or on a treadmill. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that walking in place at a moderate intensity can improve cardiovascular fitness and decrease the risk of coronary heart disease.
One of the benefits of walking in place is that it can be done anywhere, at any time. It is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and can be a great option for those who may not have access to a gym or outdoor walking trails.
When walking in place, it is important to maintain good posture and engage the core muscles. This will help to increase the intensity of the exercise and improve its cardiovascular benefits.
Overall, walking in place can be a great option for improving cardiovascular health. It is convenient, low-impact, and can be done anywhere. Incorporating this exercise into a daily routine can help to decrease the risk of coronary heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular fitness.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient | May not be as enjoyable as walking outside |
| Low-impact | Limited variety in terrain |
| Can be done anywhere | May not provide the same mental benefits as walking outside |
| Decreases risk of coronary heart disease | May not burn as many calories as walking outside or on a treadmill |
Note: The table above is for illustrative purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.
Walking in Place and Disease Prevention
Walking in place is a simple and convenient way to get moving, but is it as effective as walking outdoors or on a treadmill? Research shows that walking in place can be just as beneficial for disease prevention as walking outdoors or on a treadmill.
One of the main benefits of walking in place is that it can help prevent type 2 diabetes. A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that walking in place for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, significantly reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in overweight and obese adults.
This is because walking in place can help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which are important factors in preventing type 2 diabetes.
Walking in place can also help prevent breast cancer. A study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that walking in place for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, reduced the risk of developing breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This is because walking in place can help reduce body fat, which is a risk factor for breast cancer.
In addition to preventing type 2 diabetes and breast cancer, walking in place can also help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall fitness. It is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
Overall, walking in place can be a great way to improve health and prevent disease. Whether it’s done indoors or outdoors, walking in place is a simple and effective way to get moving and stay healthy.
Walking in Place in Different Environments
Walking in place is a form of physical activity that can be performed in various environments, such as at home, in the office, or outdoors.
It is a low-impact exercise that can help individuals maintain their fitness level, burn calories, and improve their cardiovascular health.
Treadmill
Walking in place on a treadmill is a popular form of exercise in gyms and fitness centers. Treadmills offer a controlled environment for walking, where the user can adjust the speed and incline of the machine to simulate different terrains. Walking on a treadmill can be an effective way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health.
Desk
Walking in place at a desk is a way to stay active while working. Some desks are designed to allow users to walk in place while they work, providing a low-impact form of exercise that can be performed throughout the day. Walking at a desk can help individuals reduce the amount of time they spend sitting and improve their posture.
Standing Desk
Standing desks are another option for individuals who want to stay active while they work. Standing desks allow users to stand while they work, which can help improve posture and reduce the amount of time spent sitting. Some standing desks also offer the option to walk in place, providing a low-impact form of exercise that can be performed throughout the day.
Outdoors
Walking in place outdoors can be a way to enjoy the benefits of nature while staying active. Walking in place outdoors can be performed in a variety of settings, such as parks, trails, or sidewalks. Outdoor walking can provide a more varied terrain than walking on a treadmill, which can help improve balance and coordination.
Weather
Weather can be a factor when it comes to walking in place outdoors. Extreme temperatures, such as heat or cold, can make it uncomfortable or even dangerous to walk in place outside. It is important to dress appropriately for the weather and to stay hydrated when walking in place outdoors.
Upstairs
Walking in place upstairs can be a way to add intensity to the exercise. Walking in place upstairs can be performed in a variety of settings, such as at home or in a building with stairs. Walking in place upstairs can help individuals improve their cardiovascular health and burn more calories than walking in place on a flat surface.
Tools and Supports for Walking in Place
Walking in place is a great way to get some exercise, but it is important to have the right tools to ensure you get the most out of your workout. Here are some essential items to consider when walking in place:
Walking Shoes
Investing in a good pair of walking shoes is crucial for any kind of walking exercise, including walking in place. Walking shoes are designed to provide the necessary support and cushioning for your feet, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring comfort during your workout. Look for shoes that fit well, have good arch support, and are made of breathable materials.
Comfortable Clothing
Wearing comfortable clothing is also important when walking in place. Choose clothing that is loose-fitting and made of breathable materials to keep you cool and comfortable during your workout. Avoid clothing that is too tight or restrictive, as this can impede your movement and make it difficult to maintain proper form.
Weights
Adding weights to your walking in place routine can help increase the intensity of your workout and provide additional benefits such as improved muscle tone and increased calorie burn. Start with light weights and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable with the exercise.
Fitness Trackers
Using fitness trackers such as the Apple Watch or Fitbit can help you track your progress and stay motivated during your workout. These devices can track your steps, distance, and heart rate, providing valuable feedback on your performance and helping you set and achieve your fitness goals.
Support
Having a support system in place can also be helpful when starting a new exercise routine. This can include friends or family members who can provide encouragement and motivation, or a personal trainer who can provide guidance and support throughout your workout.
Orthopaedic Limitations
If you have any orthopedic limitations, it is important to consult with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine. They can provide guidance on the best exercises to do and any modifications that may be necessary to ensure your safety and prevent injury.
Studies on Walking in Place
Several studies have been conducted to determine if walking in place provides the same benefits as walking outside. One study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that walking in place for 30 minutes is just as effective as walking outside for the same amount of time in terms of cardiovascular fitness and calorie burn.
Another study published in the International Journal of Exercise Science compared the muscle activation patterns of walking in place and walking on a treadmill. The results showed that walking in place activates the same muscles as walking on a treadmill, indicating that it can provide similar strength and endurance benefits.
However, it is important to note that walking in place may not provide the same mental health benefits as walking outside. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that walking in nature has a greater positive impact on mood and self-esteem compared to walking indoors or on a treadmill.
Overall, while walking in place may not be a perfect substitute for walking outside, it can still provide many of the same physical benefits. Incorporating walking in place into a daily exercise routine can be a convenient and effective way to stay active.
Comfort and Clothing Considerations
When it comes to walking in place, comfort and clothing considerations are important factors to keep in mind.
While walking in place may seem like a low-impact activity, it still requires some level of physical exertion, which can be uncomfortable if not done properly.
One of the most important things to consider when walking in place is the type of clothing worn.
Loose and comfortable clothing is recommended, as it allows for a greater range of motion and prevents chafing. Tight or restrictive clothing can impede movement and cause discomfort during the activity.
It is also important to wear appropriate footwear when walking in place. While it may be tempting to walk barefoot or in socks, this can increase the risk of slipping and falling.
Shoes with good support and cushioning are recommended, as they provide stability and reduce the risk of foot and ankle injuries.
Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated during any physical activity, including walking in place. Keeping a water bottle nearby and taking regular sips can prevent dehydration and promote optimal performance.
Overall, by wearing comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear, and staying hydrated, individuals can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable walking in place experience.
Tea-Break Walking in Place
Tea-break walking in place is a popular way to get some exercise in during a busy workday. It involves walking in place for a few minutes while taking a break from work. This type of walking can be done anywhere, including in the office, at home, or even while watching TV.
One of the benefits of tea-break walking in place is that it can help increase blood flow and improve circulation. This can help reduce the risk of developing blood clots and other health problems. Additionally, it can help improve mood and reduce stress levels, which can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.
To make the most of tea-break walking in place, it is important to maintain good posture and engage the core muscles. This can help improve balance and stability, which can reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing to avoid discomfort or injury.
Overall, tea-break walking in place can be a great way to incorporate more physical activity into a busy workday. It is a simple and convenient way to get some exercise and improve overall health and well-being.
Walking in Place and Sedentary Lifestyles
Walking in place is a popular exercise that involves walking on the spot without moving forward. It is often used as a low-impact alternative to traditional walking and is commonly practiced in fitness classes, at home, or in the office. However, some people wonder if walking in place is as effective as walking outdoors or on a treadmill.
One of the main benefits of walking in place is that it can help combat sedentary lifestyles. Sedentary behavior refers to activities that involve little or no physical movement, such as sitting at a desk for extended periods. This type of behavior has been linked to negative health outcomes, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
By incorporating walking in place into their daily routine, individuals can increase their level of physical activity and reduce the amount of time spent being sedentary. This can lead to improved health outcomes and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.
While walking in place may not provide the same cardiovascular benefits as traditional walking, it can still be a useful tool for those looking to increase their daily physical activity. Additionally, it can be a convenient and accessible option for individuals who may not have access to outdoor walking trails or a treadmill.
Overall, walking in place can be an effective way to combat sedentary lifestyles and increase daily physical activity. It may not provide the same benefits as traditional walking, but it can still be a useful tool for those looking to improve their health and wellbeing.
Walking in Place for Non-Runners
Walking in place is a low-impact exercise that can be a great alternative for non-runners who want to get some cardio in. It involves lifting your feet off the ground and mimicking the motion of walking while staying in the same spot. This exercise can be done anywhere, at any time, without requiring any special equipment or a gym membership.
For non-runners who may find running too intense or intimidating, walking in place can be a great way to start incorporating cardio into their routine.
It is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and can be done at a pace that is comfortable for the individual. Additionally, it can be a good option for those who have limited space or are unable to go outside due to weather conditions.
While walking in place may not provide the same benefits as running, it can still be an effective form of exercise. It can help improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance, and burn calories. According to the American Council on Exercise, walking in place can burn around 300-400 calories per hour, depending on the intensity of the workout.
To make the most out of walking in place, it is important to maintain good posture and engage the core muscles. This can help prevent any strain on the back or neck. Additionally, varying the pace and adding in arm movements can help increase the intensity of the workout.
Walking in Place and Gym Memberships
Walking in place is a convenient and accessible way to get some exercise without leaving the comfort of your home. However, it may not be the best option for those who have invested in gym memberships.
Gym memberships provide access to a wide range of equipment and facilities that can help individuals achieve their fitness goals. Walking on a treadmill, for example, allows for a more intense workout as it simulates outdoor walking while providing a controlled environment.
Additionally, some gyms offer group fitness classes that incorporate walking or other cardio exercises, which can be a fun and motivating way to stay active.
On the other hand, walking in place can be a good option for those who are unable to go to the gym due to time constraints, physical limitations, or other reasons. It can also be a convenient way to incorporate some physical activity into a busy workday or while watching TV.
In terms of effectiveness, walking in place can provide similar health benefits as outdoor walking or using a treadmill. However, it may not be as engaging or challenging as other forms of exercise, which could lead to boredom and lack of motivation over time.
Walking in Place Tutorials and Guides
Walking in place is a simple and convenient way to get some exercise without having to leave your home. There are many tutorials and guides available online that can help you get started with this form of exercise.
One popular resource for walking in place tutorials is YouTube. There are many channels dedicated to fitness and exercise that offer step-by-step guides on how to walk in place. Some of these channels also provide additional tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your workout.
In addition to YouTube, there are also many websites and apps that offer walking in place tutorials and guides. These resources often include detailed instructions on how to perform different walking in place exercises, as well as information on how to properly warm up and cool down before and after your workout.
To make the most of your walking in place workout, it’s important to follow a structured routine. Many of the tutorials and guides available online offer pre-made workout plans that you can follow.
These plans typically include a warm-up period, a main workout period, and a cool-down period, all designed to help you get the most out of your exercise routine.
Overall, walking in place can be an effective way to get some exercise without having to leave your home. By following the tutorials and guides available online, you can learn how to perform different walking in place exercises and create a structured workout routine that works for you.
Walking in Place and Dance
Walking in place can be a great alternative to outdoor walking or treadmill walking, but how does it compare to dancing? While both activities involve movement and can provide cardiovascular benefits, there are some key differences.
One major difference is the level of intensity. Dancing often involves more vigorous movements and can be a higher intensity workout than walking in place. Additionally, dancing can work a wider range of muscles and improve coordination and balance.
Another difference is the mental aspect. Dancing requires more focus and concentration than walking in place, as the individual must follow choreography and music cues.
This added mental challenge can provide benefits for cognitive function and overall brain health.
However, walking in place can be a more accessible option for those with limited space or mobility restrictions. It can also be a low-impact option for individuals with joint pain or injuries.
Overall, both walking in place and dancing can provide physical and mental benefits. It ultimately comes down to individual preferences and goals.
Bones and Walking in Place
When it comes to bones, walking in place and regular walking have some similarities and differences. Both forms of walking involve the use of bones in the lower body, including the femur, tibia, fibula, and foot bones. These bones work together to provide support, balance, and movement during walking.
However, there are some differences between walking in place and regular walking when it comes to the impact on bones. Regular walking involves more force and impact on the bones due to the forward movement of the body. This impact can help to strengthen bones and prevent bone loss in the long run.
On the other hand, walking in place involves less impact on the bones since the body is not moving forward. This means that walking in place may not provide the same bone-strengthening benefits as regular walking. However, it can still be a good form of low-impact exercise for those who may have joint issues or injuries.
While walking in place and regular walking both involve the use of bones in the lower body, there are some differences in terms of the impact on bone health. Regular walking may provide more bone-strengthening benefits, but walking in place can still be a beneficial form of exercise for those looking for a low-impact option.
Final Thoughts
Walking in place is a versatile and low-impact exercise alternative to traditional walking, suitable for those with limited space or mobility. It involves simulating walking motions without forward movement, engaging various muscles, and potentially increasing heart rate, depending on intensity and duration.
While it burns fewer calories compared to walking outdoors or on a treadmill, it still offers significant health benefits, including stress reduction, improved mood, and contributions to weight loss and cardiovascular health. Walking in place is particularly beneficial for combating sedentary lifestyles, as it can be easily incorporated into daily routines, even in confined spaces or while engaged in other activities like watching TV or working at a desk.
It’s a convenient option for non-runners, those with orthopedic limitations, or anyone looking to add simple physical activity to their day. Despite its differences from traditional walking, such as the lack of terrain variation and reduced calorie burn, walking in place remains an effective exercise for overall health and fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of walking in place?
Walking in place is a low-impact exercise that can provide several health benefits. It can help improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance, and burn calories. Additionally, walking in place can be done anywhere, making it a convenient exercise option.
How long should I walk in place to lose weight?
Walking in place can be an effective way to lose weight, but the amount of time needed to see results can vary. It is generally recommended that individuals engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day to achieve weight loss. However, the duration and intensity of walking in place should be tailored to an individual’s fitness level and goals.
Can walking in place help me lose belly fat?
Walking in place can be a helpful exercise in reducing overall body fat, including belly fat. However, spot reduction of fat in a specific area is not possible with any exercise. A combination of regular exercise, a healthy diet, and overall weight loss can help reduce belly fat.
Is walking in place a good exercise for seniors?
Walking in place can be a safe and effective exercise for seniors, as it is low-impact and can be done at a comfortable pace. It can help improve balance, mobility, and overall cardiovascular health. However, seniors should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.
Is walking in the same spot as effective as walking?
Walking in place can provide similar health benefits as walking, but it may not engage the same muscles or provide the same level of intensity. Walking in place can be a useful alternative when walking outdoors is not possible, but it should not be relied upon as a replacement for regular outdoor walking.
Does walking in place count as steps?
Walking in place can count as steps if a pedometer or fitness tracker is worn and calibrated to detect movement in place. However, the number of steps may not accurately reflect the distance traveled or the intensity of the exercise.