by Walking is a type of exercise that seems quite easy. You don’t need to go to a gym, lift heavy weights or use any other equipment. Although it seems simple, many people tend to make mistakes while walking. Poor walking habits can negatively impact your comfort, health, and overall walking experience. So, before you tie your shoelaces and get ready to walk, learn about the bad walking habits you need to quit.
Walking errors and how to correct them
It might surprise you, but people frequently make walking mistakes.
1. Inappropriate shoes
Incorrect shoes can cause discomfort and even damage, says Aminder Singh, fitness expert at Team Aminder. Make sure your shoes fit well, are comfortable, and have enough front width for your toes to spread naturally. This way, you will be less likely to get blisters and other foot-related problems.
2. Bad posture
Good posture should always be maintained for efficient walking. Maintain an upright posture and avoid slouching. This promotes better breathing, relieves back tension and improves balance in general.
3. Look Down
When walking, many people tend to look at their feet or mobile devices, which can strain your neck and back and cause you to become less aware of your surroundings. Instead, keep your eyes straight ahead to maintain your posture straight and your awareness of your surroundings.
4. Inadequate arm swing
Coordinated arm swinging is part of good walking form. You need to move your arms against your legs. This coordinated arm swing improves your walking efficiency while helping you maintain your balance and rhythm.
5. Insufficient water intake
Even when performing a basic exercise like walking, it is important to stay hydrated. If you’re dehydrated, you may end up with fatigue and muscle cramps. Carry a bottle of water with you and drink it frequently to maintain proper hydration.
It is also essential to wear comfortable clothing to avoid chafing and overheating when walking.
Benefits of walking correctly
There are many benefits to walking properly and they can help improve your overall health and well-being.
1. Injury Prevention
The risk of injury is significantly reduced by walking correctly, the expert tells Health Shots. Your chances of tripping and falling are reduced when you walk correctly because your body is balanced and stable. This reduces the risk of sprains, strains and other conditions caused by poor walking form.
2. Preservation of joints
When you walk correctly, you evenly distribute pressure on your joints, protecting them from unnecessary strain. Your joints can be protected from long-term deterioration, which can lead to conditions like osteoarthritis, by avoiding excessive impact on them.
3. Ankle protection
Paying attention to your step and foot placement is an important part of walking efficiently. This prevents your ankles from rolling or twisting, which can hurt and cause long-term problems. The risk of ankle injuries is significantly reduced by proper foot alignment and controlled movements.
4. Knee Alignment
Your knees will be perfectly aligned with your feet and hips if you walk with proper form. This alignment reduces stress on your knee joints and reduces the risk of patellofemoral pain syndrome, which can be caused by poor walking form, says Singh.
5. Lower back health
Walking with good posture reduces pressure on the lower back and supports the natural curve of the spine. This can help deal with current lower back problems and prevent new ones from emerging.
So, adopt good walking habits to reap the benefits.
