| How
to ensure you are walking properly by
Debra J. Rose, Ph.D. Here is a
quick and easy way to check the quality of your walking pattern. All you need
is a full-length mirror. Walk
directly toward the mirror and observe the following: -
Your knees are pointing forward.
-
Your hips are level.
-
Your arms swing rhythmically as you walk.
-
Both sides of your body are symmetrical (arm swing, step
length, etc.).
- You are walking tall (e.g.
your head is erect and your ears are directly above your shoulders).
Walk
alongside a wall mirror (a full-length mirror is helpful for this activity) and
observe the following:
-
Your heel makes contact with the floor first on each step.
-
You can feel the pressure roll up to the toes as you push off from the floor.
- Your knee is almost fully
extended before your heel contacts the floor.
-
Your steps are of equal length.
-
Your ears are directly above your shoulders and your body is upright.
This
checklist is reprinted with permission from a recent book by Debra J. Rose, Ph.D.,
codirector of the Center for Successful Aging at California State University at
Fullerton. Dr. Rose’s book, FallProof! A Comprehensive Balance and Mobility
Training Program, is published by Human Kinetics. More information about FallProof!
is available by calling Human Kinetics toll-free at 800-747-4457 (U.S.) or 800-465-7301
(Canada), or by going to www.HumanKinetics.com. Disclaimer:
This handout is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified
healthcare professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended
as a sharing of knowledge and information from research. The ICAA encourages you
to make your own health and business decisions based upon your research and in
partnership with a qualified professional. | 
