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[np_complete]

I am on the 3rd week of a couch-to-60 minutes walking a day program. I'm enjoying it very much. I'm using my treadmill (finally getting some value out of it!) and both feeling very proud of myself for exercising and genuinely enjoying the act. Walking with proper posture and not pushing yourself too hard too fast make a big difference. I never

Comments

[wickedgillie]

Good for you! Walking is such a great way to get fit and an easy, enjoyable way to stay fit. I've been a life-long long-walk walker and I cannot say enough good things about it.

[np_complete]

I used to be a serious walker, both for practical and recreational purposes, but I acquired a car after college and got out of practice. I also moved from a neighborhood on the edge of a nature preserve to a sterile mixed-use suburb, and the habit ceased providing any sensory pleasure. Walking became "do .75 mile on concrete, turn around at the Starbucks, walk back."

It's about 95F every day these days: walking on a treadmill in the air conditioning is a lot more fun. :) I can also do it barefoot, although I'm not sure that's recommended. I need to get some decent shoes.

[wickedgillie]

Don't worry about it being barefoot. It could even be better for you! There's actually a barefoot running movement that promotes it as being so much better for your feet, knees, joints in general, etc. because your gait is much more natural.

[np_complete]

I'm not sure my gait is right in the first place: an acquaintance who used to be a gym teacher commented once that there was something slightly off about the way I walked. I do know my right ankle bends sideways when I walk unless I make a point of holding it just so.

It doesn't *hurt*, or anything, but I want to do this right and not develop any problems due to heavy walking with the wrong foot motion.

(I'm not even sure what kind of expert one should consult for that!)