Biking vs. Running: Which is Better?

Both biking and running are excellent forms of exercise, but they have differences which could sway you toward one activity over the other, according to New York Times.

"In general, running burns more calories per minute than cycling," said Dr. Hirofumi Tanaka, professor of kinesiology and director of the Cardiovascular Aging Research Laboratory at the University of Texas.

The American College of Sports Medicine calculated someone weighing 150 pounds who runs at a brisk seven minutes per mile will incinerate about 1,000 calories per hour.

That same person pedaling at a steady 16 to 19 miles per hour will burn about 850 calories. Walking is also known for requiring far fewer calories, about 360 per hour at a four-mile-per hour pace.

Strenuous running and cycling is also known for dulling the appetite temporarily. During both activities, men's blood levels of ghrelin, a hormone known to stimulate hunger lowered compared to when they sat quietly.

Dr. Tanaka stressed the fact that running has a downside because injuries are common.

"Cycling is a non-weight bearing activity, so it is better for your knees and joints," said Dr. Tanaka.

"It does not cause much muscle soreness," he further stated.