5 common walking mistakes that could hurt your progress, according to an expert

Walking is a great way to get the body moving and clear the mind — but if you’re doing it wrong, it may do more harm than good.That’s according to Dr.Milica McDowell, author of the new book “Walk,” a guide to getting the most out of walking.The Montana-based doctor of physical therapy, who specializes in lower extremity and orthopedics, shared in an interview with Fox News Digital how powerful walking can be.“Walking has incredible health benefits for your wellness today and your longevity tomorrow,” she said.

“And it’s something that’s at an all-time low since the pandemic.”“Walking improves every system in your body – gut, musculoskeletal, mental health, your hormones – and so it has an incredible power to help optimize how you’re doing.”McDowell added that walking is a “phenomenal way” to support a weight-loss journey, as it’s low-impact and low-intensity.It can also boost creativity and reduce stress.While the health benefits of walking are evident, McDowell warned of some mistakes that could reverse progress.Escaping our phones can sometimes feel impossible, but if there’s ever a time to be on do-not-disturb, it’s during a walk, according to McDowell.Walking while scrolling is “really dangerous,” she cautioned, as you’re less aware of your surroundings and more susceptible to accidents.“You could step in a pothole.

You could get hit by a car.You could trip over something.

You could bump into someone,” she said.“Walking and scrolling is actually a bit of a public health crisis.”Scrolling also puts the neck in a downward position, making the head heavier, which changes your posture “from the top down,” McDowell said.

“That can be a problem if you’re someone who struggles with neck pain, back pain or shoulder pain.”McDowell recommends wearing a proper shoe designed specifically for walking to support the feet, promote healthy alignment and protect musculoskeletal health.The shoe shou...