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October 2021: Walking: One Step at a Time

By October 1, 2021February 26th, 2023No Comments

October 2021 Update

Walking: One Step at a Time

The theme of National Chiropractic Health Month (NCHM) 2021 this October is “Keep Moving!” by striving to add more movement and physical activity into your day.

Many have learned the hard way over the last year that lack of movement and physical activity can lead not only to weight gain but also achy joints and other musculoskeletal conditions. Taking care of our health by staying active, reducing stress and keeping a positive outlook can help us all to keep moving through challenging times.

In honor of NCHM 2021, we are sharing our tips to start a regular walking routine, which is a safe, effective, and low-cost way to achieve your fitness goals and it an appropriate place to start for someone of any fitness level.
While some fitness enthusiasts relentlessly seek out the latest exercise trends, others—especially those who are avoiding gyms and health clubs because of COVID-19—are returning to good, old-fashioned walking to help them feel great and get into shape. Whether enjoying the wonder of nature or the company of a friend, walking can be a healthy, invigorating experience.
Thanks to its convenience and simplicity, walking just might be right for you, too. And except for a good pair of walking shoes, it requires virtually no equipment. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that a sedentary lifestyle has a debilitating effect on our health as we age, therefore physical activity is imperative. According to CDC, walking accomplishes all of the following and more:

  • Improves cardiovascular endurance
  • Tones muscles in the lower body
  • Burns calories
  • Reduces risk of heart disease
  • Reduces anxiety and enhances sleep
Selecting Shoes

Too many people choose fashion over function when purchasing running shoes, not realizing that ill-fitting shoes can do more than hurt their stride; they can also lead to pain throughout the body.

  • Make sure the shoes you purchase fit properly. The balls of your feet should rest exactly at the point where the toe end of the shoe bends during walking.
  • Shop for sneakers at the end of the day or after a workout when your feet are generally at their largest.
  • Wear the type of socks you usually wear during exercise.

Once you have purchased a pair of shoes, don’t walk them into the ground. While estimates vary as to when the best time to replace old shoes is, podiatric experts suggest between 350 and 500 miles is a good benchmark.  Many fitness tracking apps will track your shoe milage for you and remind you when to it is time to purchase a new pair!
Getting Started

CDC recommends adults get 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity), and walking is a great option. The following tips can help you get started on your walking regimen:

  • Move your arms freely, in coordination with the opposite leg.
  • Don’t stoop your head or look down as you walk. This will challenge the normal forward curve of your neck, which, in turn, will cause you to carry your weight improperly.
  • Don’t carry weights or dumbbells while walking. They’re better used as a separate part of your exercise regimen.
  • Expect a little soreness in the thighs and calves for the first week or two.
  • Walk briskly, with “purpose.” Simply sauntering, while relaxing, is not an effective form of cardiovascular exercise.
  • Stay hydrated.
Walking Surfaces

Some walking surfaces may be better than others on your musculoskeletal system.

  • Walking on a cushioned or rubberized track is generally better because the cushioning of this type of track absorbs most of the impact of your walking.
  • Grass is another good surface, but watch out for hidden dips or holes in the ground.
  • Walking on a surface with no give, such as concrete or a mall floor, is not your best choice, because this type of surface will not absorb much of the impact your body will experience. If you do choose to walk on such a surface, be sure to select adequately cushioned shoes.
  • Alternate the days that you walk at a slant. For example, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, walk on slanted terrain. On Tuesday and Thursday, switch to flat terrain. This keeps your spine symmetrical.

 

Pain and Injury

While you may experience pain or injury in a particular area (such as a knee or a hip), the root of the problem may lie elsewhere. A problem in the foot or ankle can create an imbalance in every step, leading to discomfort or injury that moves to the knees, hips, low back or other regions of the body.

 

If you suffer from pain beyond typical muscle soreness, call to make an appointment at SOSR, we can diagnose and treat your pain or injury and get you back on track.