REALAGE TIP

Put Your Best Foot Backward

Get more from your walking workout by putting it in reverse.

Walking backward burns more calories, improves coordination, and gives your heart and lungs a better workout than hoofing it forward -- as long as you maintain your speed. The reason? It forces your leg muscles to work harder and in different ways. Just do it in a safe place (like the local high school or college track) where you won't bump into something and take a spill.

You can benefit from working out in reverse -- even if you're recovering from certain knee or leg injuries -- because it puts less stress on the knee joint compared with walking or running forward.

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tennis5186

9 of 9 people found this helpful.

5/13/2008 3:21:05 PM

My physical therapist had me walking backwards on the treadmill for a herniated disc. She also said that it's great for lifting the butt. Who could pass up that tip?

jessmar

10 of 10 people found this helpful.

5/12/2008 6:44:16 AM

I walk backwards up an incline on my (almost) daily power walk/run. My route is on a quiet street, but the few people who drive by look at me like I'm crazy but it absolutely uses different muscles and provides a little variety to the walk. And it makes the incline not seem as steep. Try it!

ddugan

15 of 15 people found this helpful.

4/20/2008 6:19:53 PM

It helps to bend at the knees with your head forward and arms bent with your hands at waist level for balance, something I learned from a friend who used to coach college football.

[Edited by ddugan on 4/20/2008 6:22:24 PM]

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