Power walking is underestimated a lot in the fitness world. There are so many health and weight loss benefits to walking that people don’t see. Walking is and should be right up there with swimming, biking, and running. But instead, most people think that it is a waste of time and is not effective.

Power walking gives the same healthy and weight loss benefits as running does. Not only does it increase your heart rate and is a great form of low-intensity cardio exercise for weight loss, but also comes with many healthy benefits. Walking 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease, increase memory, bone strength, mood, and sleep.

While power walking gives such great benefits, without proper power walking technique it can become a waste. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind when power walking:

* Don’t over-stride. Keep to short, fast, steps to prevent shin splints. Roll through your step with your back foot and leg, getting a good push off.

* Make sure to get a good pair of walking shoes. This can cause all sorts of injuries to your body, especially back problems. Running shoes should be light-weight, flexible soles, and not too small. Walking shoes should be replaced every 500 miles

* Do not walk flat footed. Instead, your step should roll from heal-to-toe. This plays a huge factor in shin splints

* Arm positions can slow down your walk as well as cause your hands to swell. Keep your arms bent at 90 degrees while walking.

* Stop looking like a chicken! Most power walkers end up crossing their arms in front of them, bringing them to the center of their body. When swinging your arms keep them close to your side and bring them back and foward, as if reaching for your wallet from a back pocket on the backstroke.

* Keep your head up right. Most people look down at their feet when walking, but this can close up your airway and can cause problems in your neck, back and shoulders.

* Don’t lean forward. Think to stand up tall when power walking

* Clothing should be lose and comfortable. At night you should have some type of reflective wear or lights to make yourself aware to others

* Make sure to drink plenty of water! You should drink a glass or water 30 minute before your walk and one cup every 20 minutes during your walk.

* Don’t over-do it! Make sure to take at least one day off walking to allow your body to rest… Even the creator look a day off!

Question: Do you prefer power walking over other cardio workouts?