Walking is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping, burn fat, and stay healthy. But, many of us don’t know how to do it properly. I know what you’re thinking: there’s a wrong way to walk? Well, yes, actually. Like any exercise, you’ll get the most benefits by learning the proper technique. Here are a few tips for making your walk as effective and injury-free as possible:
Don’t Slap Your Feet
Stomping the ground with every step will put unnecessary stress on your joints. The heel of your foot should be the first thing to touch the ground, and every step should be a smooth rolling motion.
Stand Up Straight
A lot of people, especially in the last few exhausting miles of a walk, tend to slouch. Get the most out of your strides by keeping spine erect with a stable core.
Pay Attention to Your Arms
Moving your arms to the natural rhythm of your stride will help burn more calories. It may also encourage you to keep up your pace, which will do wonders for timed walks.
Double Knot Your Shoes
Stopping in the middle of a walk to re-lace your sneakers can be more than a bit annoying; invest in a great pair of walking shoes and lace them tightly before you go out.
And as always, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your walk!
