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Walking Blog

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com Guide to Walking since 1996

How to Hurt Your Back Walking

Thursday August 28, 2008
Forward leanHaving seen 4000 people out walking last weekend on the Portland to Coast Relay, I can see that there is an enormous need for walking coaches. Or maybe just a mirror. Problem number one is posture. Most people don't think about their posture while walking, but it makes a big difference in how well you walk and how you feel afterwards. Leaning forward, walking with your chin down, hunching your shoulders, all of these bad habits can add stress to the neck, shoulders, and lower back. If you have low back pain after walking, have a friend or spouse do a posture check on you.
Photo: Bad walking posture with forward lean, © Erofit.com

Comments

August 28, 2008 at 3:39 pm
(1) Dr Phil (W) says:

You are Soooo right. When I walk upright I do not even have pain the next morning. Any leaning and I pay for it. Thanks again Wendy

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