Even though most of us have been walking since we were a year old, we don't always walk in a way that promotes optimum fitness and minimum risk of injury. When walking for fitness, these factors become very important. Keep in mind the proper walking technique:

1. Walk with good posture - chin up and shoulders slightly back. Think tall. Keep a neutral spine with the head stacked over shoulders over hips over knees over feet.
2. With each step, your heel touches the ground first. Reach out your leg with your knee, heel, and toe pointed forward in the direction of travel.
3. Use smooth movements rolling over the ball of your foot onto your toes
4. One foot bears all your weight until your other heel strikes the ground
5. Swim arms naturally at your sides in opposition to your legs. For more intensity and upper body toning, use a bent arm position at a 90-degree angle, keep elbows close to body, and raise the hands no higher then chest level
6. Breathe normally (in 1-2 out 1-2)

Content provided by City of Saskatoon, Leisure Services Department "A Smart Start Guide to Walking for Fitness: Walk the Walk"