Question: What's the best exercise for losing weight? Jogging, swimming, using a treadmill?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Choosing one exercise over the other should depend upon your goals, age, and pre-existing health issues.

Preferences really become a weighing of the pros and cons in each individual case. For those with injuries or pre-existing back or lower extremity complaints, lower-impact activities like swimming may be a smart option.

Jogging is popular among younger athletes because it does not require special facilities and is universally available. But jogging is more difficult for some who have conditions affecting their lower back, hips, knees, ankles, and feet. These negatives may be partially offset by the fact that our bones will actually strengthen with weight-bearing exercises. But swimming is an excellent low-impact all-round exercise choice.

Remember that different muscle groups are used for both these activities, and sometimes if is best to ask your doctor which activity will give you the best prescription for optimal bone and muscle health.