Ashley V. Austin, MD, discusses the run walk method, popularized by Olympic marathoner and famed running coach Jeff Galloway, the strategy—often called the Galloway method—is simple: Instead of continuously running for a given distance, you alternate it with periods of walking. 

There are a bunch of physical benefits of the run-walk method too: For one, it can reduce your injury risk, especially if you’re just getting started with the sport, said Dr. Austin. Running is one of the highest impact forces you can put your joints through, Dr. Austin explained, and because of that, people can experience pain and overuse injuries if they ramp up too quickly. The run-walk method allows for a slower, safer progression. Same principle applies for people with arthritis: Inserting walk breaks into runs can help give your joints a breather while still promoting blood flow, which is important for reducing feelings of stiffness. Ultimately, this approach can allow them to tackle longer distances than nonstop running, said Dr. Austin.

Read the full article at self.com.