There are two types of formal walking: power-walking (also known as speed-walking) and racewalking. Both types require technique; the difference between them is that racewalking is an Olympic sport with rules and power-walking is done more recreationally. For example, there’s a racewalking rule that the athlete’s back toe cannot leave the ground until the heel of the front foot has touched. Both are excellent forms of exercise that yield fitness and health benefits.

Another type of walking requires no technique; you just get out there and walk. I call this the plain old walking technique, one step in front of the other! You’ve been doing it your entire life, and whether it’s for exercise, a stroll, or walking the dog, there are lots of benefits to be gained from it. I encourage you to continue if that’s what you do for exercise, but if you want to up the ante and start walking faster, then attention to your technique might be just the ticket.

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