Does Walking Seem Unproductive for You?
By Tom Herrin
Most people look for some kind of opportunities for self-improvement. It may be after they look in the mirror and discover that what they thought was that perfect figure is no longer quite as sleek and trim as it once was. Or it may be after some kind of health scare in which they discovered that their vitals have begun to change for the worse. Higher blood pressure, weight gain, and a few other things can cause people to re-examine their lives. When they do so, if they are serious, they may try to find ways to increase their activity and be more productive. Doing this can be best if they can use the right form in whatever they do.
Hold Your Head Up
It may seem that holding the head up is critical to the success people may have in a lot of activities. That is because it truly is. When people hold their heads up, they tend to straighten their bodies as well. This may help to keep the shoulders in better shape and avoid slumping. Any time people slump, or hunch over, it can create a strain on the muscles and cause aches. This can make the efforts seem futile; a person can get frustrated and lose interest in walking for something as important as their health.
Arm Movement Counts Also
When people walk correctly, they should be moving their arms. If nothing else, the counter movement of the arms makes the walk easier. It is advised that people bend their elbows at a 90-degree angle and try to keep their hands and shoulders loose. It is also recommended that the elbows be kept in pretty close to the body so that they are not moving outward like wings. They should keep the hands at a relatively low level as they walk to keep from having them being slung too high.
Walking Should Be Fun
I enjoy walking but have had times in which it was not so pleasant. Wearing the right shoes is always important as poor fitting or worn shoes can make your feet hurt. Practicing good posture can help with breathing as well as prevent some aching. When I have gotten into a good routine and formed efficient walking habits, it has been enjoyable. When this happens, you may feel as if you could walk indefinitely. This is the goal most of us have when we take on a new activity.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Parker, Colo.