Common walking mistakes
So, you’ve laced up the sneakers, and you’re ready to hit the road. Walking off the weight or walking to stay fit is pretty much a tried-and-trusted method as old as the hills. (By the way, hills are great for working out the glutes).
But before you rush out, take note of a few common mistakes that could hamper your progress.
Not being choosy with your shoes
It’s tempting to flex with the trendiest sneakers you can find, but the wrong shoe can be a literal pain. Look for a pair that will give you good flexibility for walking, shoes that are well-padded, fit correctly and are light and breathable. The shoes should feel comfortable and provide good ankle support. This goes double if you’re walking on rough terrain. Plus, you want a decent pair of shoes that will be durable and long-lasting.
Zoning out
We get it; your workout playlist is amazing. The problem with music blasting in your ears while you’re walking outdoors is that it can easily turn into a dangerous distraction. Even in areas where there’s little traffic, you may not be able to hear cars approaching or people suddenly appearing behind you. Save the tunes for the treadmill and keep the volume on low when you’re outdoors. Be safe.
Focused on your screen
It’s definitely a good idea to carry your phone with you. A pedometer app can help track your steps, you can monitor how long you’ve been walking and quickly call for help in case of an emergency. Other than that, keep your phone in your pocket and focus on your walk. Don’t be distracted by text messages, emails, or alerts. This is just another way you can unknowingly walk into a dangerous situation.
Not tracking steps
If you’re committed to an exercise routine or trying to lose weight, tracking your steps is a huge motivator! You can see where you started, how much you’ve improved and even monitor calories burned on many apps. Use this information to set goals and inspire even more progress.
Walking incorrectly
Yep, there actually is such a thing as walking the wrong way. Overstriding happens when you walk fast and naturally tend to lengthen your stride. The problem here is that you could land awkwardly, roll an ankle or slip. Also, the constant overreaching/overstriding can result in shin pain. Take short, quick steps rather and remember the mantra: “heel to toe”. While you’re at it, keep your head up. Walking with your head constantly peering down is bad for your posture.
Not warming up/cooling down
Even if you’re just doing a leisurely walk and return home barely having broken a sweat, you’re missing out on the benefits of stretching before and after. Before you set off, warm up with arm and leg stretches so your muscles are prepped for a good walk. After the walk, do the same to keep your muscles supple and flexible.
Good to know
Walking at a moderate to fast pace for about 30 minutes each day can burn up to 200 calories.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.