The surprising health benefits of walking backwards

Summary

Julie danalu discovered the benefits of walking backward after a knee injury, which helped her rehabilitation. She now advocates for this unique form of exercise, sharing her passion on social media. A personal trainer supports its use, and studies suggest that retro walking can improve gate, balance, and muscle strength, especially around the knees and hips. It's theorized to be more strenuous than forward walking, potentially offering a more effective workout. Beginners are advised to start with a partner or on a treadmill for safety. While it may raise eyebrows, it's a novel way to enhance physical and cognitive fitness.

Takeaways

• 🚶‍♀️ 'Reverse Julie' started walking backward after a knee injury and found it beneficial for her recovery.
• 📈 She can now walk several kilometers backward and promotes this method on social media.
• 🤸‍♂️ A personal trainer is encouraging clients to try backward walking, highlighting its unique benefits.
• 📊 Studies have shown that backward walking can positively affect gait and balance ability.
• 🔍 It's been theorized that walking 100 steps backward is more strenuous than walking 1000 steps forward.
• 💪 Backward walking is believed to improve muscle strength, particularly around the knees and hips.
• 👣 Walking backward can enhance balance, with people walking faster after training in this manner.
• 🦿 The toe-first walking technique in backward walking reduces pressure on the knee joint, potentially easing knee pain.
• 👶 Beginners are advised to start with small steps, either on a treadmill or with a partner outdoors for safety.
• 🧠 Backward walking engages other senses and provides a mental workout, as it requires concentration and spatial awareness.

Q & A

What was the initial motivation for Julie to start walking backward?

Julie started walking backward after a knee injury, as it helped her recovery.

How does Julie feel about walking backward and what does she recommend?

Julie loves walking backward because it has rehabilitated her knees and hips, and she highly recommends it.

What is the personal trainer's opinion on walking backward?

The personal trainer encourages his clients to try walking backward, finding it amazing once they get used to it.

What are the benefits of walking backward according to studies mentioned in the script?

Studies have shown that walking backward positively affects gait and balance ability, and it is theorized to be more strenuous than forward walking.

How does walking backward compare to walking forward in terms of muscle work?

It is theorized that walking 100 steps backward is more work than taking 1000 steps forward.

What specific muscle groups can walking backward help improve?

Walking backward can help improve muscle strength, particularly around the knees and hips.

How does walking backward affect the pressure on the knee joint?

Walking backward eases pressure on the knee joint by putting the toe down first instead of the heel, reducing the shear force at the knee.

What advice is given to beginners who want to try walking backward?

Beginners are advised to start slowly on a treadmill or go outside with a partner for support.

What additional benefit does walking backward provide to the brain?

Retro walking requires concentration and reliance on other senses, which gives the brain a workout.

What is the potential downside for people with impaired balance considering walking backward?

People with impaired balance or a history of falls may want to avoid walking backward due to the increased risk of falls.

What is the overall suggestion for those looking to try walking backward?

For those looking to add variety to their exercise routine, walking backward could be a new way to step out of their comfort zone.