Power Walking: The Whys and Hows of a Life-Changing Exercise Technique

Power walking is an exercise technique that emphasizes speed and arm motion as a means of increasing health benefitDone correctly, regular power walking is good for your cardiovascular health, joint health, and emotional well-beinPower walking 101: Here’s how you doGood power walking technique is essential if you want to maximize benefits and prevent injuries. Here are some good guidelines to follow:
Watch your postuKeep your eyes forward, shoulders back, and head upright. Pull your belly button in toward your spine to engage your core muscles. If you find yourself slumping forward, take a moment to correct your body positioIf you notice you’re holding tension in your shoulders and neck, relax and release them. Good posture will help you maintain speed and will help protect you from injury.
Swing your arms gentWith your arms bent at about a 90-degree angle, move your arms up and back so the opposite arm and leg are advancing at the same time. If your right foot is stepping forward, your left arm should be reaching forward, toAdding the arm motion will help you walk faster. You don’t need wild swings or chicken wings to get that benefit. Exaggerated movements could actually slow you down and increase the chance of hurting yourself.
Focus on controlling your range of motion. Your hand shouldn’t rise higher than your collarbone and shouldn’t cross the center of your bodyHeeWith every step, land on your heel and roll your foot forward toward your toe. Concentrate on moving your hips forward rather than side to sidGet a move Use short strides and aim for a brisk pace. StudiesTrusted Source have shown that taking more steps per minute can have a positive impact on your insulin level, body mass index, and waist circumference.
If you’re just beginning an exercise program, talk to your doctor about a healthy pace for you. Gradually work up to longer distances and greater speedDistance couOne small studyTrusted Source of postal workers found that those who walked more than 15,000 steps daily had no signs of metabolic syndrome. This icombination of health factors that often precedes the onset of diabetes.

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