Almost Every Activity Requires the Right Form
By Tom Herrin
No matter what people choose to do as some kind of exercise, there is a good chance that it needs to be done with some correctness. There is usually at least a good way and a better way to perform most physical tasks. Surprising to many people is the fact that even walking can be done with a little more form than may be commonly believed. As with so many other things, using the correct form when walking may make quite a bit of difference in the success of the activity. The good thing is that it is not that difficult to make some good changes.
Posture Still Counts in Walking
The way people stand and carry themselves when they walk can be a big factor in whether or not they are able to be efficient with their efforts. A minimal list of things to include may be:
- Stand up straight with feet pointed ahead
- Keep the head as level as possible because leaning over may cause unnecessary aches
- Avoid arching the back
- Try to tuck in stomach so as to tighten core muscles
- Focus well ahead and follow the sight line
The Right Foot Work Can Help
Many times, people appear to believe that reaching far ahead can help to move them along better. The fact is that pushing off with the back foot and toes is a key to propulsion. As a result, the best stride may well be to hit on the heels and roll forward with the foot to the toes to be pushed ahead. Keeping the back foot on the ground longer is an important part of having a successful stride. Most people would like to get the most mileage out of their walking, thus avoiding exhaustion without really getting anywhere.
Enjoy the Walk
We all likely have the tendency to do something because we feel that we need to do more than because we want to do it. Walking is no different. I like walking but have had times when it has seemed like more of a chore than an opportunity. Working to develop the right form and stride may make the entire experience a lot more pleasurable. If you are trying to become a walker, take some time to improve your technique just as you would with anything else you may do. It may pay big benefits for you.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Newnan, Ga.