Power walk is a type of walk for sure, but it is better explained as an aerobic form which involves a brisk pace and body movements that help in boosting the blood supply of the body. It is similar to jogging but with less impact on the joints. So, what exactly is power walking and how to do it effectively? This article will guide you through the basics.

How Fast Is the Power Walk?

Power walking is just below the basic running speed. You are running if you hit the 5-mph mark. So, power walk is walking at about 4 to 4.5 mph. Bear in mind though that you might not be able to hit that mark when you are a novice. Just stay committed and don’t get disheartened.

The Technique of Power Walking Explained

Talking about power walking is all well and good but how exactly to do it? This question stumps many interested people. This is because we correlate walking with just strolling through or pacing it up a bit. Power walking is a lot more work and involvement. The below points will set you up on the power walking track in no time at all:

• Shoes: Before you even start to invest in good quality walking shoes. Bear in mind that walking shoes are different from running shoes.
• Warm-up: Power walk is a strenuous form of walking akin to jogging so you must take care and warm up before beginning with appropriate stretches.
• Moderation: As much as you want to dive headlong into power walking, it is not a good idea. Start slowly then amp up your speed and body movement intensity. To begin with, beginners should first try a 15 to 20-minute walk.
• Posture focus: This is very important. Keep your chin high and eyes focused in front with a straight spine. Arms should be bent at 90 degrees and focus on your core.
• Strides: For power walking, shorter strides are advised. Make sure to land on the heel and roll your weight to the toe.
• Swinging: Try swinging your arms gently and in sync with the rest of your body movements.

Jazzing Up Your Power Walk

Aside from the usual technique involved in turning your stroll into a power walk as enumerated above, there are other embellishments you can add to reap the most out of your power walk.

• Equipment is not always needed or necessary. Do the talk test to see if you are doing it right. If you cannot talk without getting out of breath for 30 seconds, then you have it right. Otherwise, speed up and start pumping.
• You can even pick up some weights and walk with them. This will help tone your arms as well since in power walk you will be swinging your arms anyways. Doing this with weights strapped on will kill two birds with one stone.
• Try to concentrate on your core muscles and the stretch on your calves. This will aid in toning your abdomen and legs.
• Try a route with inclines like going over a hill. This will revamp your routine and aid in more weight loss especially if you hit a stagnation point.
• Adding some off-road rough terrain will also help in keeping your body on its toes.

Advantages of Power Walk

There are many benefits to power walking. Some of them are listed below:

• Better metabolism
• Improved digestion
• Managing blood sugar
• Aids in weight loss
• Heart-healthy
• Reduces the risk of high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Bone healthy
• Fights depression and anxiety

Some Common Queries on Power Walking

You are sure to have certain queries in your mind. Below are the most common ones to ease your mind:

Is It Better Than Running?

When it comes to burning calories both power walking and running yield the same results. One hour of power walking will burn the same calories as one hour of running at the same speed.

How to Start with Power Walking?

Power walking involves brisk pace with full arm swinging and controlled hip and leg movement. All you need to do is concentrate on maintaining the correct posture while walking and you are good to go. No training is required.

Can You Lose Weight with A Power Walk?

Yes, power walking will aid you in shedding those extra kilos. Even more effective is power walking in intervals.

Should You Power Walk Every Day?

Power walking every day is not a problem as long as you are not overly straining your body. Any type of walking especially brisk walking has numerous benefits for the body from, weight loss to managing type 2 Diabetes. Power walk is the latest trend to hit the fitness world. Everyone who is anyone is lauding its benefits. As long as you listen to your body and exercise caution to avoid any injuries power walk can be your best bud. It just takes one step a time to be well on your way to health and fitness.