Walking Safety Tips

Walking is a great way to ease into a more active lifestyle. Practice these safety tips to get the most benefit from your walking regimen.

10 Walking Safety Tips

1. Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program, including regular walking.
2. Don’t overdo it. Allow your body time to adjust before you try walking too quickly or for long periods of time.
3. Get a pair of walking shoes that provide adequate support and stability.
4. Use the “Talk Test” to determine if you’re walking too quickly or too slowly. You should be able to answer a question, but not carry on a full conversation.
5. If you experience any pain in your muscles, joints, chest, or head during or after walking, contact your physician.
6. Use a watch or pedometer to help you set goals and monitor your progress.
7. If you walk outdoors alone, always let someone know what route you’ll be taking and when you expect to be back.
8. Wear light-colored clothing or reflectors when walking outdoors to make yourself visible to motorists.
9. Always walk facing traffic instead of in the same direction so that you can see any oncoming vehicles.
10. Vary your walking route from day to day to avoid becoming bored. This can also prevent someone from memorizing your whereabouts or routine.