It may seem like walking is a pretty easy way to get exercise and be active. Though it is not as intensive as running or biking, there are still ways that you can improve your stride and prevent injury.
Walking for fitness purposes can help you to feel healthier and give you more energy. Even though it may not seem like a very difficult or strenuous form of exercise, there are still ways for you to injure yourself in the process.
If you are hoping to start a daily walking exercise regimen, there are some things that you should know and pay attention to beforehand. One aspect that you must avoid is over striding.
Many people that are hoping to get more of a workout from their stroll prefer to go faster and really increase their heart rate. This is fine if you know how to lengthen your stride properly.
When walkers try to go faster, there is a natural inclination to lengthen the stride with the front leg.
However, doing so may result in shin splints or knee problems, because it could cause unnecessary trauma to the legs.
If you do wish to go faster, take shorter, quicker steps and push off with the back foot. Focusing the pressure and energy on this region may prevent you from an awkward and painful stride.
Another thing that you must remember is the purchase adequate walking shoes. Most of the time, it is worth it to spend a little more money on higher quality footwear.
They will help give you comfort and provide cushioning, reducing the likelihood of you experiencing knee or joint issues. There are a few characteristics of a proper walking shoe.
First off, they should be very lightweight; heavy soles will only make you drag.
It will be difficult for you to step properly if your shoes have stiff soles that are unable to bend. Your foot may try to fight against it as you roll through the step.
If you are an avid exerciser, you may need to replace your footwear once every year. They are only meant to last about five hundred miles worth of strolling or running; after this span of time, the cushioning degrades drastically.
Make sure that your footwear is about a half size larger than you would usually purchase in another style. When you work out, your feet tend to warm up and swell.
If you choose shoes that are too small or just barely fit, it is very likely that you will experience discomfort, blisters, or cramping. You can fix these problems by being fit for the proper type of footwear.
Pay a visit to a sporting goods store that specializes in this type of apparel and will be able to adequately measure you and choose the right type for your usual workouts. When it comes to technique, you must make sure that you are moving through your stride properly.
It is necessary that you avoid flopping or slapping feet. This usually means that you are not focusing properly on rolling your feet through the step.
This usually occurs when you are fighting against stiff and heavy shoes or when your shins are not strong enough. Strengthening muscles and purchasing correct shoes can help alleviate the problem.
Pay close attention to the accuracy of your arm swing; bending them too much or letting them fly far away from your body will make you less aerodynamic and could tire you out quicker. Make sure that your elbows stay close to your body and do not swing high enough to reach your chest or chin.
When you are exercising, it is best to keep your head up; it is likely to improve your posture, and you may find that you are able to put more effort and energy into your workouts. Constantly looking at the ground will only round your back and prevent you from being motivated to go forward.
Try to focus, instead, on something in the distance in front of you. Finding an object to look at about twenty feet ahead will make it easier to keep your head up and your back straightened.
Walking can be a great form of exercise if you know how to do so properly while moving quickly and intensely. It is a great jumping off point for individuals who would like to try a more difficult form of cardio.
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