Walking Tips

There is no doubt about it, training for events is tough! You’ll be well rewarded however when you’ve completed an amazing feat. Stick to our training advice and you shouldn’t go wrong!

Walking Tips

Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs
Leave gates and property as you find them
Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home
Keep dogs under close control
Consider other people

Walking Techniques - ways to avoid injury and discomfort

Touch the ground heel first, roll forward through the arch, over the ball of your foot to your toes, which push off to start another step. This reduces the risk of shin splints and tendon pulls.
Walk with your head up and eyes focused ahead.
Keep your shoulders level, pulled back and down, lift your chest.
Contract your abdominal muscles, pressing them towards your spine.
Carry your arms at 90° angles and pump them forward and back, rather than side to side.
The faster you move, the better your cardiovascular workout. But try to keep an even stride and maintain a steady pace. To walk faster.... (a) Accelerate your arm movements. (b) Take smaller, quicker steps. (c) To prevent lower back pain avoid leaning forward and arching your back.

Feet first!

There are some common foot problems which are very easy to treat and avoid:

To avoid blisters keep your feet dry and wear socks made with fibres which draw moisture away from your skin - steer clear of pure cotton. Don't lace your shoes too tightly or too loosely. The irritation from the pinching and rubbing may cause blisters.
Aching arches are usually caused by pounding when you walk. Make sure you touch the ground with your heel first and pushing off with your toe. Arch supports may help.
Blackened toenails are caused by the big toe hitting the front of your shoe. Keep your toenails neatly trimmed. Make sure that if one of your feet is slightly larger than the other, as most are, that your boots fit the larger one.

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