From Wendy Bumgardner,
Your Guide to Walking.
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Instead of rolling through the step with your forward foot from heel to toe, your foot is flattening out prematurely. Either you are fighting stiff, heavy shoes or your shins are too weak to let you roll through the step.

Symptoms

• Your feet hit the ground with a slap.
• You land flat footed with each step and get no roll.
• You may develop shin pain.

The Cure for Flapping, Slapping Feet

Get flexible shoes that bend at the ball of the foot. A pair of running shoes with a low heel is best.
Before You Buy Walking Shoes

To strengthen your shins, ankle, and lower leg:

Toe raises: Stand on a stair facing upstairs with your heels hanging over the edge. Dip the heels down, then raise them high. Repeat 10-20 times.
Step Stretch Toe Raises

Foot fun: While sitting around, several times a day, tap your toes quickly for several seconds. Then write the alphabet in the air with your foot. Repeat with the other foot.

Heel walking: As part of your warm-up, walk on your heels for 30 seconds.

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