Is Walking a Part of Your Activity?
By Tom Herrin
Many people set out to find a way to get more exercise in their lives. For many, it is an ongoing struggle to find ways to get the kind of exercise that can build their health. Walking has long been considered to be one of the most effective ways of getting some relatively mild activity so that a person can gradually work up to something that may be more challenging. For some however, even walking can be a struggle. Some seem to wear themselves out due to poor form or style. It is fortunate for them that making some small improvements can yield some good results.
Arm Movement May Support Better Performance
All anyone has to do is be a good observer and they may easily see that moving the arms is an important part of successfully walking. All animals must have some kind of movement to balance the body's movements. It has been suggested that the elbows be kept bent at a right angle and maintained near the body. As one walks, it is thought to be best to avoid reaching to high as they swing the arms. Keeping those hand movements lower may be better. It has also been recommended to keep the hands partially closed but not clenched.
A Good Walking Stride Can Make It More Productive
When people strike the ground with their feet, it seems to be best to do so with the heel first, then roll across the foot and finally push off with the toes. This can help to increase the contact time of the foot with the ground, which is considered to be the best technique. Reaching ahead too far appears to be unproductive. It seems that the greater amount of stride that is behind a person the better. While it may seem a little unnatural at first, a little practice can pay big dividends.
Better Practices May Produce a Better Walk
There have been times in which I have had trouble with my walking. As a matter of fact, I have tried to avoid it when I have had problems. As I have found things to improve my style, I have begun to look forward to each time I have had the opportunity to go. Take a good look and see if there are areas of your walking style that could be improved and give it a try. It may be simpler than you think.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Stafford, Va.