Healthy Walking Needs the Right Steps
Walking is also an exercise. An easy and effective exercise that not only helps in keeping the body fit and active, but also keeps the heart healthy. However, it is effective only as long as the method of walking is correct. Many people walk daily just to stay fit, but if the method is not right, then its effect can be the opposite. Therefore, if you walk for physical health, then it is important to first know how to walk correctly, so that you can get full benefits from it.
Learn the Mistakes and Correct Them
Talking on the Phone or Looking at a Screen
Many people talk on their mobile phones or type messages while walking. Bending your neck and back can cause pain and reduce the benefits to your heart and lungs.
Talk or Distract
Continuously talking while walking can disturb your speed and breathing pattern. Due to this, the amount of oxygen in the lungs will decrease and you will feel tired quickly. Your ability to burn calories will also decrease. This is correct, if you are walking with someone then stay quiet, avoid talking.
Walking too Slow or Fast
Walking too slowly does not improve heart function much. On the other hand, walking too fast can cause shortness of breath and fatigue. This will slow down the process of weight loss and lead to muscle strain. That’s right, it is important to maintain a steady and balanced speed while walking. Neither too slow, nor too fast.
Not Drinking Water
The body sweats while walking, which can lead to dehydration. Many people do not drink enough water during or after walking, which is not right. Due to this, the body’s energy decreases, dizziness and headache occur and muscle cramps start. This is correct, keep drinking one sip of water every 10 minutes.
Eating more Immediately After
Eating heavy food immediately after walking can affect the digestive process. You will feel heaviness in the stomach and indigestion, excess fat will accumulate in the body, and heart health will also be negatively affected. That’s right, eat a light meal 30 minutes after your walk.
Look Down
Many people walk constantly looking down. This puts pressure on the neck and shoulders, which can lead to stiffness and pain. It also affects the position of the spine, leading to poor posture over time. This is correct, while walking keeps your back straight, keep your shoulders loose and keep your neck raised.
Taking Long Strides
Taking big steps puts excessive pressure on the knees, hips and ankles. This puts more strain on the joints and increases the risk of muscle imbalances and injuries. Take small steps. Do not put too much pressure and strain on your feet.
Walk with Outstretched Hand
Many people stretch their hands while walking or move them too much. This can disrupt the natural rhythm of the body. This will reduce fat loss and improve balance. Here’s the truth.
- Keep your hands light but controlled
- Avoid swinging at speed.
Over Capacity
Walking is good for fitness, but if done for too long and at a fast pace, it can cause stress conditions like shin splints (pain along or around the shin bone) and can cause fatigue. The truth, don’t walk beyond your capacity. Increase the time gradually.