Cycling and running are both an excellent form of physical workout. They are both equally good for your health though each has its own set of specific benefit to your body and well being. Running is said to burn more calories than cycling per minute. Running affects your bones and joints by putting in lot of stress and pressure resulting in lots of wear and tear compared to cycling.

You are vulnerable and prone to lots of physical injuries when you run regularly. On a practical and efficiency note, cycling scores due to its health Benefits along with practical uses. You can choose to go to work on a bicycle which burns a lot of your calories yet keep you less tired and act as your transport. Whereas running to work is impractical and tires you lot more and makes it impossible to keep your shirt formal! You need a lot of dedicated time for running while cycling can be integrated into your routines like grocery shopping or ride for paying utilities. When it comes to affordability and cost of it, running scores due to practically no maintenance and zero cost, barring a simple pair of running shoes.

Though cycling is hardly far behind as it costs very low to maintain and is a onetime investment that serves you for years as fitness equipment as well as personal transport. Here are certain basic differences in cycling and running...

Joy factor When it comes to joy of it, cycling is a lot of fun compared to running. Cycling is less straining than running making you go long and far. It is more practical to go on a scenic route on a bicycle than run the same route.

Effectiveness Running is highly effective when it comes to burning more calories in less time. Cycling is shown to burn 15-20% less calories when done for equal amount of time. When time is of essence you can choose to run for short period of time to be effective.

Commuting factor This is one factor that tilts favour towards cycling in a big way. Though both are for physical well being, cycling can double as commuting and save you time in doing physical activity by doubling as your ride to office. Running to office in a formal attire is impractical.

Injuries Running has its downsides when it comes to long term effects on your body and bones. Particularly your joints, which take a lot of strain and beating due to friction during running. Cycling is relatively easy on your joints and body when compared to running and less prone to physical injuries.

Building muscles Cycling is a very effective form of exercise for your lower body, particularly thighs and legs. You get to build and strengthen your lower body muscles by cycling. When it comes to running, you are effectively stretching your body and muscles than building them. You only tone and strengthen your body.

Infrastructure To run you have practically the world. You can run on treacherous terrains and gravel slopes or grassy hills yet be fun. Cycling requires a stable and plain surface to be able to cycle effectively with proper balance. Even in cities you need roads with less traffic to manage cycling effectively.