9 Tips To Perfect Your Walking Form and Posture
9 Tips To Perfect Your Walking Form
Good posture will make it easier to go the distance. Here are some posture pointers for stronger striding during your next walk.
TIP 1: STAND-UP TALL
Imagine that a wire attached to the crown of your head is gently pulling you upward.
Walking erect will keep you moving at a brisker pace.
TIP 2: KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE HORIZON
This will help you to stand taller and avoid stress on your neck and low back.
TIP 3: LIFT YOUR CHEST AND TIGHTEN YOUR ABS
Using muscles in the front of your body to straighten up will take pressure off your back.
TIP 4: BEND YOUR ARMS
You’ll be able to swing your arms faster, which helps increase your speed. It also prevents swelling caused from blood pooling in your hands as you walk longer distances.
TIP 6: MAINTAIN A NEUTRAL PELVIS
Don’t tuck your tailbone under or overarch your back.
TIP 7: KEEP YOUR FRONT LEG STRAIGHT BUT NOT LOCKED
You’ll have a smoother stride and be able to propel yourself forward more easily.
TIP 8: AIM YOUR KNEES AND TOES FORWARD
Proper alignment will reduce your chances of injury.
TIP 9: LAND ON YOUR HEEL
This facilitates the heel-to-toe walking motion that will carry you farther and faster than
if your foot slaps down on the ground with each step.
That may seem like a lot to think about, but you don’t have to do it all at once. Start from the top of the list and focus on one tip at a time. Pay attention to this area of your body at the beginning of your walk, and then periodically check about every 15 to 20 minutes (don’t constantly focus on it) to see if you’re maintaining good posture. If not, simply get back in alignment. Do this for about a week and then move onto the next tip. Some changes may happen quickly while others may take some time to become habits.
