Benefits of Water Running and Walking

Benefits of Water Running/Walking

  • Legs must find the most efficient mechanical path through the water. Extraneous motions of the feet and legs are reduced or eliminated over time.
  • The water’s resistance strengthens muscles which can serve as back-up strength to the primary running/walking muscles. By alternating off and on, the main running/walking muscles will retain resiliency longer. These smaller “reserve” muscles will also be able to keep you going for a little while if you overuse the main running/walking muscles and need some help to keep going during the last few miles in the half or full marathon.
  • You get a great cardiovascular training session without any pounding. Since the prime running/walking muscles are not being used, most injuries can heal. 

Jeff Galloway Resources: jeffgalloway.com. Visit the E-Shop where you will find “Galloway Training Programs” and other books.

Jeff Galloway smiling near a lake with city skyline in the distance.
Jeff Galloway

Jeff Galloway, US Olympian and creator of the Run-Walk-Run method, has helped over 350,000 runners achieve their goals through his innovative training programs. As Runner's World's monthly columnist and author of North America's best-selling running book, Jeff has spent over 50 years sharing his expertise and continues to conduct running seminars worldwide as runDisney's Official Training Consultant.

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