Walking

Walking is the act of moving on foot at a pace slower than running. It is one of the most basic forms of human locomotion and is widely practiced for transportation, recreation, and exercise. In gait terms, walking involves alternating bearing weight on one leg while the other leg swings forward, with most adults using a heel‑to‑toe pattern and a stance phase that provides stability and energy transfer.

The pace of walking is commonly described as slow, normal, moderate, or brisk. Brisk walking typically raises heart rate and breathing while still allowing conversation. Key measures used to describe walking performance include cadence (steps per minute) and stride length (the distance between successive contacts of the same foot). Walking is a low‑impact activity that most people can perform daily, with energy efficiency enabled by elastic storage in tendons and coordinated muscle action in the legs and core.

Health and well‑being are commonly linked to regular walking. Moderate walking for about 150 minutes per week, plus strength training, is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, as well as improved mood, cognition, and weight management. Walking infrastructure and accessible spaces influence public health by enabling active transportation and recreation.

Types of walking include leisurely strolls, brisk or power walking, trail or hill walking, and Nordic walking (using poles). Practical considerations include suitable footwear, weather‑appropriate clothing, safety on uneven surfaces, and gradual progression for beginners. Walking remains a simple, versatile activity with broad cultural and environmental benefits.