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How to Walk Faster: Foot Motion

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Created: April 12, 2004

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Walking step motionErofit.com
The walking step is a rolling motion.
  • Strike the ground first with your heel, your ankle flexed.
  • Roll through the step from heel to toe.
  • Push off with your toe.
  • Bring the back leg forward to strike again with the heel.
  • Flexible shoes will ensure you are able to roll through the step.
  • If your feet are slapping down rather than rolling through, your shoes are likely too stiff.
  • At first, your shin muscles (anterior tibialis) may tire and be sore until they are strengthened.
  • Show them your sole: If you are really striking with the heel, someone watching you from in front will see the sole of your shoe on each step. Think about showing them your sole.
  • On your forward foot, let the ankle do the work of flexing your foot, don't lift your foot with your toes.
  • A good push off by your toes on your rear leg will add power and speed to your step.

Strike with heel. Back foot rolls through to push off.

Front foot continues to roll through step as back foot comes forward. Front foot strikes with heel and here we go again!

Next Page: Leg Motion

How to Walk Faster
Intro
Shoes
Baseline Technique
Head and Torso
Arm Motion
Foot Motion
Leg Motion
Warm-up
Stretching
Drills & Workouts

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