The Right Way to Walk
Are you walking in the right shoes this fall? Let’s talk about it. Walking is one of the best ways to include daily movement as part of your routine. Running has many health benefits, but did you know walking is a great form of exercise, too? We talk about putting in miles while moving at a fast pace, but taking things slowly has many advantages for your overall health.
The doctors at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group encourage patients to walk because it is low impact. Even at a brisk pace, the movement can be gentle on joints and muscles. Walking is also a great way to ease back into physical exercise if you are recovering from an injury. Once you receive the doctor’s approval, take things nice and slow.
Before you hit the track or trail, keep these tips in mind:
Stretch — then start
Walking may not seem like a big deal, but it is another form of movement. You need to give your body enough time to warm up. Stretching before and after, for about 15 minutes each time, is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of injury. Yes, even this type of exercise can lead to injuries without proper preparation.
Shoe shop with standards
You should be picky about your walking shoes, too. While shopping, search for shoes that have plenty of arch support, a roomy toe box, and flexibility. Of course, make sure you’re wearing the right size, too. Just because you’re not running doesn’t mean you should just put on any pair of shoes you find in your closet. Your feet will hurt if your shoe shopping standards are a bit too low.
Stick with your appointments
If you regularly visit a podiatrist, keep up your appointments. Foot pain should be addressed, whether you are running or walking. If you have foot pain, walking can worsen it, too. Many people feel that only fast-paced activities can be the problem. Instead of making plans for hiking a new trail, check in first with your podiatrist.
What’s all the fuss about this form of exercise? Remember these benefits:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Reduce stress and tension
- Improve balance and coordination
- Reduce the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and more
- Strengthen bones and muscles
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
