When we see someone with a good walk it is often enough to turn our heads. It is easy to develop bad habits when walking so the following suggestions I hope will help you to improve your walk and good posture.
A good walk is a deliberate, movement of your legs, feet and arms appearing smooth and effortless.
- When you walk your head should remain relaxed as though you have a string coming out of the crown of your head with a balloon on the end holding your head up. Hold your chin parallel with the floor. Practice getting this right as it will make a huge difference to how you look when you walk.
- Notice that if you change the position of your head you look entirely different. Just dropping your head down by an inch can make you look sad.
- It can be helpful to practice walking with a book on your head to correct any problems.
- Your upper torso should remain strong. It should not be swaying back and forth.
- Your back should not be over-arched or bent forwards too far. This is so easy to do when out in cold weather.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed, do not pull then forwards and upwards, allow them to go back naturally and drop down.
- Stand tall with a slightly lifted chest, your chest should be out, but not forced.
- Relax your arms at the elbow and slightly swing in time with the opposite leg, this keeps the body in balance.
- Check your hips are level with your knees pointing forwards.
- Move your leg from your hip joint when walking.
- Your heel should hit the ground first, then the balls of your feet. Push off with your toes.
- Put each foot in front of the other, keeping them as close as possible as they pass each other and facing forwards.
- The distance between each stride should be the length of your foot.
- Never walk with your hands in your pockets. Let them swing gently by your side. Wear gloves in cold weather.
- Visualize how you would like to see yourself walking and use this image. Walk towards the mirror, practicing different ways of walking. Take note of how the different walks look and which one you like best.
Here is hoping you have fun practicing your new walk.
For more information visit my website at www.etiquetteandmanners.co.uk The etiquette courses are on sale for £3.99. The courses are also certified for continued professional development (CPD) if required.
Good Luck
Ellen