Walking v/s skipping: Which is better for mental clarity?
What's the story
Walking and skipping are two simple yet effective physical activities that can affect mental clarity.
Both exercises have their own perks, impacting cognitive functions differently.
Knowing how each activity affects the mind can help you choose the right exercise for your mental well-being.
Today, we look at how walking and skipping impact mental clarity differently, and how you can include them in your daily routine.
Cognitive boost
Walking's influence on cognitive function
Walking is a low-impact exercise, which is known to boost cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain.
Regular walking sessions have been associated with better memory and concentration levels.
Studies even suggest that just a short walk of 20 minutes can significantly improve your mood and mental alertness.
The rhythmic nature of walking calms you down, putting you in a state of mind that thinks clearly.
Brain stimulation
Skipping's effect on brain activity
Skipping, more vigorous than walking, provides an intense workout that activates your brain like nothing else.
The coordination while skipping activates several parts of your brain at the same time, boosting neural connections.
This exercise is linked to the increased production of endorphins, the brain chemicals that act as natural mood lifters.
Skipping frequently may result in sharper focus and faster decision-making skills, thanks to its stimulating effects.
Energy expenditure
Comparing caloric burn rates
When you match caloric burn rates while walking versus skipping, the latter burns more calories in a given time period because of its intensity level.
While a brisk walk would burn about 150 calories an hour for a layman, skipping may double that depending on speed and time.
This higher energy expenditure not only helps with physical fitness but also clears your head by lessening fatigue.
Personal choice
Choosing based on personal preference
Ideally, the decision between walking and skipping should come down to personal preference and fitness goals.
For those who want an easy form of exercise with meditative benefits, walking can be more appropriate.
Meanwhile, those wanting an energetic workout with immediate results would love skipping.
Both activities provide unique benefits for mental clarity, so you can add either or both into your routine, depending on your needs.