For most of us, the way we walk is an afterthought, BUT there is an actual method and form for walking that is important to master when preparing for long walks, such as the Atlanta 2-Day Walk! Go through our checklist below to make sure that you have the proper technique!
- Keep your chin up and shoulders back
- Walk so that the heel of your foot touches the ground first, and then roll your weight forward.
- Swing your arms as you walk; this will increase the intensity of your walk.
- Start and finish your walk with a few minutes of gentle stretching to prevent muscle strain.
- Think of your walk as having three parts: start with five minutes of slow walking, then increase your pace, and then finish with five minutes of slow walking.
- Do a “talker test.” You should be able to maintain a conversation with your walker buddy without getting winded. If you can’t, then slow down your walk a bit.
Keep these key tips in mind when you walk, and you will be on your way to becoming a 2-Day Walk pro!!
Tips courtesy of Palo Alto Medical Foundation
