running or jogging "that is the question"

[DDH]

Okay, I know this is going to sound like a silly question, but I really don't know the answer. What is the difference between running and jogging.
I know at 4 mph, I am really just jogging I guess, but I want to work up to running so whats the difference? I am heavy and when I run or jog, it feels like running cause it's hard and I can't breath, but for others I am probably just at a fast job, or even slow jog.

I guess I just want to know when I can actually say I am running and not just jogging, or does it really matter.

[crazybikinchic]

I don't think it matters as long as you are out there moving your feet.

I too am amoung the very slow joggers.

[VeloVT]

It's not a speed, it's a state of mind .

[rocknrollgirl]

I agree, state of mind. The only people that would tell you otherwise are those "runner" types.

Just keep putting one foot in front of the other.

[OakLeaf]

+1 on state of mind.

I finally felt like a runner after I finished my first 5K at the end of January. My time was nothing special, it was just the fact that I'd focused my training, done specific work to reach a specific goal, and accomplished it.

Now that I'm just doing occasional maintenance miles and focusing more on cycling, I have a hard time claiming to be "running." "Jogging" is such a derogatory term, I don't voluntarily use it of myself, but I don't feel I have a right to claim "running" at the moment, either.

[KSH]

I'm really not sure. I personally don't care.

I just get out there and do my thang.

On my longer running sessions (anything over 6 miles), I do a 5 minute walk/2 minute run combo... and I call that a run session. It's running for me!

[Grog]

There's a guy called the Penguin that writes for Runners' World. He likes to say that he waddles around. To him (and I agree) being a runner is a state of mind:
http://www.runnersworld.com/article/...2126-0,00.html

In short, being a runner means taking this more than casually. You don't just go out there and flaunt your cute running clothes on the boardwalk. You're actually doing it with a purpose. I think that about summarizes it.

[DDH]

Okay, good then, I call it running. I certainly am not trying to show anything off that is cute. LOL

I have a purpose and that is to train to at least attempt to do more than a slow walk and anything above that to me is a run.

Thanks girls, once again!!!

[Wahine]

First off I have to say that I agree with everyone here, there is no difference between running and jogging in whether or not it's good for you etc. I would also say to let those categories go and just do your thing.

Now technically, there is a difference. But it has to do with kinetics etc and has no application at all in this context. In summary, it has to do with what proportion of the gait cycle is spent with both feet off the ground. With jogging, this is very brief and with running it's much longer. This also corresponds to speed, as you go faster you get more "air time".

[trickytiger]

Oh, but there are so many more lovely categories! I don't know about you, but I've done variations on all of the following (sometimes in the same race or outing): sprinting, shuffling, trundling, leaping, trotting, plodding, and my absolute favorite, waddling (after my first and only ultra).

Really, it's all about putting one foot in front of the other. I agree with the others: if you are more than casual about it, you're a runner.

[Hammer]

People discuss this on dedicated running forums too. I like, "The difference between running and jogging is an entry form." Though I would never suggest that exclusively.

I've got a runner friend that never enters events. She certainly runs much faster and longer than me. I only run an event maybe once a year or so. Depends on if it's one that I want a tshirt for or not. Or how my running has gone that year. I tend to regress occasionally. I can't imagine the investment of running a race like every weekend, or whatever.

[Urlea]

My husband and I have a theory that the real runners are those who continue running after the race has come and gone. Those who run, just because they love to. Not to stay in shape or beat someone. Those who even run in the wind, rain, sleet and snow. Because they can.

I certainly agree with the other ladies here, it is about the desire and state of mind.

Races are great, it's nice to have a memento that you are indeed a runner. Being part of the running community is also a big boost to keep you going. But, it's not what makes me a runner.

Keep putting one foot in front of the other! I know I will be.

[crazybikinchic]

I was reading my Runner's World magazine this afternoon on my train ride home. There was a question on runners being called joggers. The answer to the question echoed what all the ladies have said, running is a state of mind. You run for the passion of it. The last line said something to the effect of whether you run a 4 minute mile or a 12 minute mile, you are a runner.

[kiwi girl]

there is a famous quote from running writer Dr George Sheehan (sp?) that 'the difference between a jogger and a runner is an entry blank' - I'm not sure I entirely buy that - although as a pretty slow runner who has entered a race or two it kind of appeals