From slouching to over-striding, certain walking habits can completely derail your progress. Experts call out these bad habits.
The article from MSN titled "6 Harmful Walking Habits You Should Quit Now" discusses several common mistakes people make while walking that can lead to health issues or reduce the effectiveness of walking as exercise. It highlights the following habits to avoid: 1) Overstriding - taking steps that are too long, which can lead to joint strain and injuries; 2) Slouching - poor posture can cause back pain and reduce the efficiency of the walk; 3) Looking Down - this can strain the neck and back, and also make you less aware of your surroundings; 4) Not Swinging Arms - neglecting to swing arms properly can decrease balance and calorie burn; 5) Wearing Improper Shoes - incorrect footwear can lead to foot pain, blisters, and other injuries; and 6) Ignoring Pain - continuing to walk through pain can exacerbate injuries. The article suggests corrections like maintaining a natural stride, keeping an upright posture, looking ahead, engaging in arm movement, choosing the right shoes, and listening to your body's signals to prevent injury and maximize the benefits of walking.