Power walking is a fantastic exercise technique that can boost your cardiovascular health, joint health, and emotional well-being. It’s essentially walking at a brisk pace with a focus on proper form and arm motion. Here’s how you can get started with power walking:
- Posture Matters:
- Keep your eyes forward, shoulders back, and head upright.
- Engage your core muscles by pulling your belly button in toward your spine.
- Correct your body position if you find yourself slumping forward.
- Relax your shoulders and neck to maintain good posture.
- Arm Swing:
- Bend your arms at about a 90-degree angle.
- Move your arms up and back so that the opposite arm and leg are advancing simultaneously.
- Avoid exaggerated movements; focus on controlled range of motion.
- Your hand shouldn’t rise higher than your collarbone or cross the center of your body.
- Foot Placement:
- Land on your heel with each step and roll your foot forward toward your toe.
- Concentrate on moving your hips forward rather than side to side.
- Pace and Distance:
- Take short strides and aim for a brisk pace.
- Studies suggest that taking more steps per minute can positively impact insulin levels, body mass index, and waist circumference.
- Gradually increase your distance and speed as you get accustomed to power walking.
Why is power walking so good for you?
- It’s a simple and effective exercise that requires no expensive equipment or gym membership.
- Brisk walking can help with weight loss, especially reducing belly fat.
- Power walking lowers the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
- Regular moderate to intense physical exercise like power walking also reduces the risk of several cancers
So, lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement for a refreshing power walk.
Yours in Fitness and health
