The way you move says a lot about you, and a little extra "spring" in your step can not only help you seem younger and more confident; it can also help you stay on the path of good health. But what makes a "young" walk, and how can you know what to change?
Here are 5 simple, practical tips that should have you stepping out more confidently in no time --
1. Buy New Shoes
You don't need the latest running shoes to walk better, but because your feet change shape over time and wearing old shoes can damage even young bodies, it's important to make sure your shoes are a perfect fit. An excellent pair of walking shoes can have you striding more lightly and comfortably, which automatically leads to a younger and more energetic stepping style.
2. Step It "Up" – Literally
Two of the signs of a more passive, less "youthful" walk are lack of elevation and weak, inattentive foot placement. Even low-elevation stair-stepping exercises with support for your hands can help improve control and walking coordination, which will inject a bit more "bounce" and purpose into your step.
3. Imitate
You don't actually have to walk "in someone else's shoes" to borrow some of their liveliness and youthful charisma.
Simply go to a well-frequented area and pick someone (not too nearby) who seems to walk with strength and energy. Simply echo the rhythm of their pace with your own stride. If you can, try to imitate their stance, paying particular attention to shoulder and hip carriage and where they seem to be looking (hint: it's usually up, toward the horizon).
You will be surprised how refreshing this exercise can be for your self-confidence as well as your walking pattern.
4. Lengthen Your Stride
Longer, stronger steps are a sign of confidence and youth, and cranking up your walking style every so often can be a great way to help add more speed and flexibility to your "normal" walk.
Why? Speeding up your walk in general helps get blood flowing faster and keep your joints loose, lubricated, and generally healthier – which may be why people who walk faster also tend to live longer and maintain better cognitive health.
Bonus tips: Practicing dancing steps can also give you ideas for how to "jazz up" your walk, and jogging in place briefly before you head out the door can be a great warm-up to help you feel – and walk – "younger."
5. Take to the Woods
New studies are finding that walking in nature helps refresh the body psychologically and physically in unique ways. When you feel more refreshed, your walk will reflect that, so find a walking buddy with whom you can keep a comfortable pace, take to the trails, and enjoy yourself.
Here are 5 simple, practical tips that should have you stepping out more confidently in no time --
1. Buy New Shoes
You don't need the latest running shoes to walk better, but because your feet change shape over time and wearing old shoes can damage even young bodies, it's important to make sure your shoes are a perfect fit. An excellent pair of walking shoes can have you striding more lightly and comfortably, which automatically leads to a younger and more energetic stepping style.
2. Step It "Up" – Literally
Two of the signs of a more passive, less "youthful" walk are lack of elevation and weak, inattentive foot placement. Even low-elevation stair-stepping exercises with support for your hands can help improve control and walking coordination, which will inject a bit more "bounce" and purpose into your step.
3. Imitate
You don't actually have to walk "in someone else's shoes" to borrow some of their liveliness and youthful charisma.
Simply go to a well-frequented area and pick someone (not too nearby) who seems to walk with strength and energy. Simply echo the rhythm of their pace with your own stride. If you can, try to imitate their stance, paying particular attention to shoulder and hip carriage and where they seem to be looking (hint: it's usually up, toward the horizon).
You will be surprised how refreshing this exercise can be for your self-confidence as well as your walking pattern.
4. Lengthen Your Stride
Longer, stronger steps are a sign of confidence and youth, and cranking up your walking style every so often can be a great way to help add more speed and flexibility to your "normal" walk.
Why? Speeding up your walk in general helps get blood flowing faster and keep your joints loose, lubricated, and generally healthier – which may be why people who walk faster also tend to live longer and maintain better cognitive health.
Bonus tips: Practicing dancing steps can also give you ideas for how to "jazz up" your walk, and jogging in place briefly before you head out the door can be a great warm-up to help you feel – and walk – "younger."
5. Take to the Woods
New studies are finding that walking in nature helps refresh the body psychologically and physically in unique ways. When you feel more refreshed, your walk will reflect that, so find a walking buddy with whom you can keep a comfortable pace, take to the trails, and enjoy yourself.
