walk

Walk, or walking, is a form of terrestrial locomotion performed by humans and many animals, carried out by alternately placing one foot in front of the other while the body remains mostly upright. In humans it is the most common method of travel and differs from running in that at least one foot is in contact with the ground during each step, providing a smooth, energy-efficient gait.

An adult's walking gait includes the stance phase, when the foot is on the ground, and the swing phase, when the foot moves forward. The cycle typically begins with heel contact, continues through the foot's roll to toe-off, and ends with the next heel strike. Typical comfortable walking speed is about 4.5–5.0 km/h (2.8–3.1 mph), with cadence around 100–130 steps per minute for many adults.

Health and fitness: Regular walking strengthens the heart and lungs, aids weight management, improves balance and mental well-being, and is accessible to many people due to its low cost and low injury risk. Public health guidance often recommends accumulating moderate-intensity activity such as brisk walking for at least 150 minutes per week, or equivalent combination, with additional benefits from longer or more frequent walks. People tailor pace and distance to ability and terrain.

History and culture: Walking is a fundamental human activity and remains a primary mode of transportation in many regions, as well as a common form of recreation and exercise. Urban planning and public policy frequently emphasize walkability to improve safety, health, and accessibility.

Equipment and safety: Appropriate footwear and weather- or terrain-appropriate clothing support comfort and reduce injury risk. Pedestrian safety depends on awareness of traffic, lighting, and surfaces; uneven ground, poor lighting, and crowded areas can present hazards.