"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

Perfecting your walking technique

People are sometimes surprised to learn that there’s more to walking than simply putting one foot in front of the opposite. In fact, a bit of technique goes a great distance in making your walk more enjoyable and more efficient. Technique is particularly necessary for those who're hoping to get fit and shed weight, as it’s going to enable you to run faster and longer. When you stand tall, your muscles will move through a greater range of motion for a more powerful stride. Improving your walking style may also make it easier to feel and appear more confident—and also you'll look thinner before you lose a pound. It may also help reduce aches and pains and can help you take deep breaths for more energy.

For any form of walking

The following rules will make it easier to maintain good condition.

stand tall Many people bring this sluggish state of the pc along for the ride. This position makes it difficult so that you can breathe and could cause back pain. Others lean back. Instead, extend your spine as for those who were being lifted by the crown of your head. Place your thumbs in your lower ribs and your fingers in your hips. As you stand taller, notice how the space between you increases. Try to keep up this length while walking.

Raise your eyes. If you're looking down at your feet, you're putting unnecessary stress in your back and upper neck. Keep your eyes 10 to twenty feet in front of you. You'll still give you the chance to identify obstacles ahead and forestall upper body tension.

Shoulders back, down, and relaxed. Roll your shoulders up, back, after which down. This is where your shoulders needs to be if you walk—not pulled toward your ears. Think about keeping your shoulders away out of your ears to cut back upper body tension and permit the arms to swing freely.

Swing out of your shoulders. Let your arms swing freely out of your shoulders, not out of your elbows. Swing your arms backwards and forwards like a pendulum. Don't bring them across your body or allow them to go higher than your chest.

Maintain a neutral pelvis. Keep your abs tight, but don't tuck your tailbone down or stick your stomach out and arch your back.

Tread flippantly. When you step forward, you need to roll from heel to toe, not land on flat feet with a thump. And don't extend your leg too far in front of you. This increases the impact in your joints and truly slows you down. You need a smooth, quiet stride—no bounce or wobble—to cut back the danger of injury.

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