

Power walking is also good for your bones. The National Cancer Institute reports that engaging in regular, moderate to intense physical exercise like power walking lowers your risk for several cancers. Studies have found that power walking also reduces your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It’s amazing that power walking - a form of exercise that requires no expensive equipment, no special athletic ability, no apps or technology, and no gym membership (and one of the oldest and simplest forms of exercise on earth) - can be so beneficial.ĭoctors have known for some time that brisk walking can help you lose weight, especially belly fat. This is a combination of health factors that often precedes the onset of diabetes. One small study of postal workers found that those who walked more than 15,000 steps daily had no signs of metabolic syndrome. Gradually work up to longer distances and greater speed. If you’re just beginning an exercise program, talk to your doctor about a healthy pace for you.

Studies have shown that taking more steps per minute can have a positive impact on your insulin level, body mass index, and waist circumference. Use short strides and aim for a brisk pace. Concentrate on moving your hips forward rather than side to side. With every step, land on your heel and roll your foot forward toward your toe. Your hand shouldn’t rise higher than your collarbone and shouldn’t cross the center of your body. Exaggerated movements could actually slow you down and increase the chance of hurting yourself.įocus on controlling your range of motion. You don’t need wild swings or chicken wings to get that benefit. If your right foot is stepping forward, your left arm should be reaching forward, too.Īdding the arm motion will help you walk faster. With 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. Good posture will help you maintain speed and will help protect you from injury. If you notice you’re holding tension in your shoulders and neck, relax and release them. If you find yourself slumping forward, take a moment to correct your body position. Pull your belly button in toward your spine to engage your core muscles. Keep your eyes forward, shoulders back, and head upright. Here are some good guidelines to follow: Watch your posture Good power walking technique is essential if you want to maximize benefits and prevent injuries.
