Walking is the most underestimated fat burning and corrective exercise to engage in. An outstanding fact about this physical activity is that it’s accessible for fitness experts and beginners. Additionally, it requires no investment as it can be done in any location. Even when walking is a simple exercise, you might make some mistakes that can obstruct your fitness progress or harm you. Ensure not to fall prey to the following common walking mistakes.
Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Like any other form of exercise, it is critical that you have the right pair of shoes that fit you properly. It would help to know that wearing the wrong walking shoes increases your probability of having knee or muscle pull issues. To begin with, you need to ensure that the shoes you go for are not heavy. They need to be lightweight as they make it easy to have smooth strides.
Additionally, wearing shoes with stiff soles for your walking exercise is wrong. It is important that your shoes are flexible to ensure your feet easily roll through each step. You also should not wear walking shoes that are over one year old. Note that the support and cushioning of shoes degrade after some time. It would, therefore, be best that you replace your walking shoes every three to six months or after covering 500 miles.
Finally, your walking shoes should be larger than your regular shoes. This is critical as your feet might begin swelling if you walk a long distance or more than 30 minutes.
Walking With Your Head Down
If you are always looking down, staring at your feet, or gazing at your phone, you’ve committed a dangerous walking mistake. When your head is in this position, you can easily walk into trouble which might cause significant injuries. Reportedly, many walkers’ injuries are a result of using their phones.
If you have an urgent business with your phone, it will help to stop walking and complete it before you proceed. While walking, it is essential that you keep your chin up. Apart from keeping you off trouble, you’ll prevent experiencing shoulders, back, or neck issues. What’s more, you’ll breathe well during the exercise.
Wrong Walking Clothes
Yes, the attire you choose for your walk matters. It would be wrong to wear heavy or tight clothes as you’ll be uncomfortable. Note that the weather will determine the clothes you’ll wear for your walk. Even so, it would help to wear thin layered clothes as you can remove some if it becomes warmer. If the weather becomes cold, you can put them back on.
In addition, it’s important to apply sunscreen, and remember to carry your sunglasses and hat. They will ensure that you are protected from the sun. If you choose to walk in the evening or early morning, always wear bright-colored clothes. When you wear dark clothes, drivers will not see you, which might result in an accident. Ensure that the reflective stripes are on your moving body parts like your legs or arms.
The Wrong Drinks
Downing a cool soft drink when it becomes hot while walking can be refreshing. However, the drink option you go for does matter. Drinking soda is a common mistake that is often committed as it adds more sugar and calories. To be on the right track, drinking water is an ideal option.
Additionally, to remain hydrated during and after your walk, you’ll need to drink water before, during, and after you’re done with your exercise. During your walk, try drinking water after at least 15 minutes.
Overtraining
It might come a time when you are less interested in walking. This could result from pains, aches, and often feeling tired. If you feel so, it’s without a doubt that you are overdoing it. If you are experiencing this, one of the things you can do is rest. Make a routine of having at least one day off per week. This gives your body time to build the muscles and gather enough energy for your exercise days.
To maintain your enthusiasm in walking, it would help that you change your routes regularly. Not only does this hype your motivation, but it also alters things for your joints and muscles.
Not Swinging Your Arms
Always use your arms to benefit yourself. It is a walking mistake to have your arms stiff on each side while walking. Bear in mind your arms act as counterweights to your legs. Hence, when your arms are not swinging, your pace will be slowed down. To have an effective arm movement, try to relax and let them move naturally.
Listening to Loud Music
If you prefer solo walking, listening to an audiobook, podcast, or music is a great way to help you pass the time. The mistake will have the volume so loud. It is vital that you are aware of what’s happening around you. Even when listening to music can set your mood and keep you motivated, it can also cause accidents.
To ensure that you enjoy your music and are safe, ensure to get earphones that allow you to hear sounds. Alternatively, you can have an earbud on one ear and leave the other to let you know what’s happening in your surroundings.
Not Having a Plan
Lastly, this might seem obvious but is a critical point. When you go out for a walk, it is vital to know where you are headed and how you’ll come back. This is especially necessary if you go walking for the first time or in a new location. Also, ensure to map out your walk and take a picture of where you parked your vehicle.
Moreover, it would be best to let someone know where you’ll be before starting your walk. This will ensure that you will get immediate help if something happens.
In a nutshell, even when walking seems like a simple physical activity, it is essential that you get everything right. Avoiding common mistakes will improve your fitness and ensure that you’re always safe.
