How to Walk Properly -Top 10 Tips with Todd Martin MD

[@ToddMartinMD]

Join the new Walking Code Members Community for access to Live Q&As with Dr. Martin, a community forum, the full original Walking Code Course, and access to members only content. www.movementsphere.com/offers/CNqqcxay. The new Walking Code Online Course is now available. This is the best course to learn proper walking and posture mechanics to help prevent poor alignment and wear and tear on your joints. Sign up now and take the first step to better walking technique and better health. www.movementsphere.com/the-walking-code-online-course-2

[@Hungryforpresence]

Bought it!!! 💃🎯

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you for your support and enjoy the course. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@edrenzi8202]

After 73 years walking in my life I needed to learn to walk again. Thank you for teaching me !

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@coralgallagher3376]

Same!😊

[@adaoraeje]

My 9 year old child made us search for videos on the proper way to walk. He has a pain in his heels and I told him it's probably because of bad walking posture. We're glad we searched though. I too have been walking wrongly. We son and I are now one another's accountability partner towards healthier walking. Thanks for sharing.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Awesome. I am sure you will both do great.

[@ImDivorced]

Thank you I forgot how to walk I needed this, thank you what a legend

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@thomearle1294]

I’m a 74 year old male. Since a recent stroke, I have been having trouble walking. We walk for exercise, so this is a major issue for me. I’ve been looking for a guide to get my stride back to where is was not so long ago. I think your tips will help me a great deal in this regard. Thank you.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I wish you the best with your recovery and getting back to your old stride.

[@vickicurtice6452]

Hi Thom, I am a73 year old female who suffered a red stroke 11 years ago and recovery is the hardest I've ever worked in my life. I had constant falls for many years and have finally gotten past that but my gait bothers me, it makes me look so much older than I feel. I will try these recommendations, how did they work for you?

[@meinhendl]

🍀🍀🍀✊🏼

[@justjane1984]

75 yo female here 👋🏼. Walking our little dog twice a day is a big part of our lives. But that includes every weather in southern Ontario, Canada. Especially on blustery cold winter days I have trouble keeping myself from folding down and leaning forward. I’ve always tried to remind myself to stand tall and now I’ll be even more conscious of it. Thanks for the video 👍🏽 👍🏽

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@lawrenceyundt8489]

Excellent guidance Sir from a 60's era Marine! Now at 76, pain free and over 33 years, therapeutic massage therapist/fitness trainer, weighing my high school body weight of 165. YOUR advice is spot ON. Thank you

[@ToddMartinMD]

Wonderful! Thanks

[@DenisAndreevv]

Thank you so much, Dr. Todd! That's a very detailed and concise explanation. Also I enjoyed the mood and pace of your video - no shouting, no selling, just calm and respectful speech, plus informative visuals. The gold standard of an informational video! 👏👍

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you.

[@violetmutale8826]

Thank you so much Dr Todd I enjoy your video very impressive

[@kennethpastore5178]

Yes Dr Martin you do speak nicely 👍

[@ToddMartinMD]

Many thanks.

[@kennethbaird968]

I am 71 and just retired I have also recently lost 18kg with more to go and have embarked on a walking regime this video is just what I needed at this time I have had sore shoulders and lower back pain as well as flapping feet This video may just fix the problem. You have taken so much care to explain the art of walking I just want to thank you.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure

[@cherrilgallagher7875]

Awesome and so helpful we don’t realize what wrong and harmful things we do to ourselves, till a kind person like you points out the wrong and shows the correct things to do thank you and Blessings ❤

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you liked it

[@KevinBurkhart]

Thank you, Dr Martin. I just had a spinal fusion surgery two weeks ago and the PT (and my wife) said I had a Marilyn Monroe swing going on. I watched multiple videos on how to walk correctly but, none of them seemed right. And according to your tips, they weren’t. Your video made sense. I watched your video, went downstairs, showed my wife and she was blown away. I now have an excellent visual roadmap. I can’t thank you enough!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure Kevin. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@Copeewe]

I am 71 years old, and I walk an hour or hour and a half every day with two of my three dogs at any one time. I completely buy the value of your insights about proper posture while walking. I walk on trails over hills where the ground is often covered with powdery soil, stones and uneven ground. Half the time I have the dogs on leashes, so I have to watch my footing while coordinating my movements with them, so I can't look into the horizon or I am likely to fall; I have had serious injuries in the past. My 40 kg german shepherd has never learned to stop pulling on a leash altogether, and after watching your video I understand the need to make sure that he stop dragging me behind him when he is on a lead. When I first adopted him, it was impossible to walk him, and although he is much better, he still insists on being lead dog. I know what I have to do to finish his training, but he wears me down, and he ends up ahead of me being the alpha that he is. He is a very muscular and determined baby who was poorly trained by his previous owners. My other two dogs walk perfectly in coordination with me, and though the other male also leads, he is responsive to my body movements, and we move at a good clip. I used to be a swimmer where coordination is the name of the game, and the other two dogs have it down, and it is a joy to excerse with them. Honey Bear is a challenge. OK. I have to continue his training. I can't walk in balance if he pulls the leash, I get it. Your technique is pure, but is must be modified not only when walking with dogs so that the movement flows, but how do you modify your technique while trekking over rough terrain and/or walking with a friend where you are looking at the person on and off while in conversation? When I walk I don't even listen to music, because it is distracting. I have to be on top of the movement or I end up on the ground with a head injury once again. No one talks about this, because it is supposed to be natural and obvious, but it isn't so. It is very similar to learning how to coordinate one's movement while swimming or learning how to play tennis. I have had the foot injuries that you discuss in the video, getting the right technique is imperative. I look forward to more of your insights.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Of course, there are times when we need to look down, but it needs to either be done with the eyes or isolating the neck movement from the rest of the body. When people are unaware, the body will follow the eyes and the neck. Once people are walking consciously from the core, it is easy to disassociate the eye and neck movement when needed.

[@meredithmericle7487]

@@ToddMartinMD Thanks. I was wondering the same thing as I have tripped over obstacles in my path before that I was not aware of. When I was younger, It never occurred to me that this could end with a fall as I'd just trip, recover and carry on. Now every little hole, rock, soft spot in the grass presents a hazard, not to mention walking the dog which can result in disaster. I'll look down with eyes only from now on. Good-bye to the leisurely walks around the block looking at the scenery.

[@Silvanafromchester]

You need to find an off leash dog park. Much better for ALL of you. I am fortunate to be able to walk dogs at a large conservation area which is also an off leash park. It is a hiking trail as the terrain is uneven. Your dogs need to have some off leash freedom. Makes for happy and tired pets. Hope that you can find a good place.

[@ToddMartinMD]

There is no issue with looking around at scenery if as long as you are controlling your movement properly. Most people who are looking at the ground are doing it as a default poor posture, not just because they are glancing down at something.

[@jeanneratterman]

Smiling at 7:20+, i think of Wendy sewing Peter Pan’s shadow onto his feet! Great photography. Beautifully demonstrated. Thanks again!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@Lee-nd5lh]

Wow. The Best teacher I 've ever known. Precise and good examples. Now I know what's wrong with my walk. Thank you so much.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Very grateful for your comment. Thank you.

[@WillNewcomb]

Thanks Doc! At 73 I've always known I have a bad walking habit: leaning forward and looking down. In part because I'm an introvert and exacerbated if I'm tired, ill or depressed. Your suggestions are helpful especially the string through the top of my head! Also, in winter I have my hands in my pockets so now I'll try to let them swing naturally. Great suggestions. Blessings.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad you liked the tips.

[@clairelivefreeordie2551]

My dad used to always tell me & my brothers, "head up, shoulders back". That was years ago &, to this day, I often find myself thinking this. Posture really is important!

[@SEzzz53]

Thank you for this detailed explanation. Over the yrs I’ve compensated for injuries or pain and altered my walk as a result. So much so, that I felt like I didn’t know how to walk correctly anymore. It seems like a silly thing, but it can really become a problem. Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

You are welcome. It is not a silly thing It happens to people all the time.

[@alysononoahu8702]

Exactly...yes!!!

[@alysononoahu8702]

Clearly we are not alone

[@tonymoniz9443]

Begoging sirname24/3

[@tonymoniz9443]

Protest Suriname op24/33023

[@lindamorales4897]

Thank you! I have a tendency to walk w/ my feet facing outwards and I didn't realize that this may have been a direct cause to my plantar fasciitis. These are helpful tips and I will incorporate them immediately. Thank you for making this video!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@marypsych1]

This was so helpful. I’ve been in a wheelchair for years and have forgotten how to walk properly so your tips really help. Thank you very much.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. I am glad you found them helpful.

[@dho6061]

Thank you for this helpful, detailed explanation on how to walk properly. I walk with duck feet and also have plantar fasciitis. I see now that I have a tendency to lean forward. Lots of things to correct! But I'm glad to know. Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

@dho6061 My pleasure

[@XRP747E]

Thank you doctor. I'm 76 and have been a keen fast walker for decades. I appreciate your warnings and I will endeavour to apply them in a corrective manner. Thank you, sir!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@amayl5191]

Your videos are phenomenal! Your calm style keeps me interested, and you are obviously very knowledgeable on this topic. I appreciate your time and effort on these videos, it's helping me a lot.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I appreciate that very much. Thank you.

[@shirleyfrederickson4794]

I enjoyed that very much. I used to walk often and am now returning to it. I had no idea of the things I was doing wrong. Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@movieMasterU]

Bravo! You are a major help, sir. Thank you for showing me the right way to walk.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad to help

[@cherylfreeborn3354]

I too am a stroke survivor, I loved walking and I did my house and walking around the par before I have had a lot of Physical Therapy, my therapist just informed me two days ago I need to practice walking and getting up and down from a seating position for after all the therapy that I’ve had, so I love the walking video because I have dropped foot on my stroke side, my daughters who are nurses are advising me all the time to watch the way I walk, I will be practicing this placing my feet and swinging my arms and standing straight from the soldiers thank you so much, Very helpful

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you. I wish you the best with your practice.

[@nogroundlefttocede4271]

Best tutorial I've seen on the topics of posture and walking. I didn't just like it, I saved it to my bookmarks. Tx for imparting your knowledge here.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. I am glad you enjoyed it

[@paulinekaplin6039]

Yes your tips are of great value to me at 87 years old. I have severe osteoarthritis and have increased the length of my daily walk and do some of the exercises now too. Thankyou.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Great to hear that. Thanks.

[@keepitsimple64]

Thank you for the proper walking video! You covered a lot! For years, I taught modified tai chi programs to seniors for fall prevention along ith the Matter of Balance Fall Prevention Program. I'm glad you went through the tips starting with eyes up, chin up while walking not down looking at every step which I see a lot of seniors do. Scan the ground for hazards but walk with eyes up. Keep the back upright. I'm glad someone connected the eyes down and the shift of center upwards, making one top heavy which will cause one to walk on the balls of their feet which can lead to a trip or a toe stub and a forward fall. I encouraged seniors to also Slow Down. A lot of falls occur when people move too quickly. Also, to Move Mindfully. Many falls occur when we are distracted. Also, to step out with the feet first rather than leaning the body forward, hoping the legs will keep up as they had in the past. For many reasons, the feet now can't move as fast. When you walk pick up the toe, dorsi flexion, and gently put the heel down first, roll into the toes. You're movement forward comes from the heel thrust from the rear leg. If you can hear your shoe strike the ground, you are walking flat-footed. Also, ladies please, please, please don't wear those easy spirit slip in shoes with no backing or back strap. So many seniors I know came out of those shoes, fell, broke hips, ribs and their femur! Falls can start a downward spiral which can lead to other health problems and a loss of independence!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Very right on all your points. I am hoping to raise awareness for people at a younger age, while creating new body movement patterns may be easier, but the tips can help everyone. Thank you for helping people with fall prevention. It is so needed.

[@waifongmok6729]

⁸⁹y7

[@jimbomagee2950]

thank goodness for a demonstator, not a foot-in-the door Fuller brush salesman . This is the first program I have viewed straight through, many thanks

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad you liked it, Jimbo.

[@Marpa47]

Thank you, Dr. Martin. This is a very clear, easy to understand video. I will benefit greatly from learning the simple ‘steps’ to walking more correctly. I believe that in future I will have less pain in the knees and derive more benefit from my walking routine thanks to you.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. Thank you.

[@gailsawyer]

Thank you so much for this video!!! I’m 70 and fell in my bedroom 9 months ago and sheered my right femur at the hip joint resulting in an “accidental hip replacement”. The doc for some strange reason lengthened that leg one whole inch. I now have to wear two lifts in my left shoe to make me level. I like the fact it makes me 5’9” again, but my one plus mile walks daily have been pain filled, not just in my hips, but knees and low back also. Your video of walking starting with the tai chi hands over head then down to sides and looking down the road rather than down in front-just now practicing in my house, I can’t wait to do it in my neighborhood! In walking just 15 feet at home, barefoot even, feels better already! Thank you again! Thank you! ❤

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. I hope the videos help you get back to walking more comfortably.

[@gailsawyer]

@@ToddMartinMD Me too, as I’m not real happy with the two different leg lengths. My left leg was always a quarter inch shorter due to a pelvic twist on that side. I see a chiropractor about every other month. But even he didn’t understand why my orthopedic doc made the right hip so much longer. So I will walk more consciously as per your video that actually just fell into my feed. No coincidences. We always get what we need when we need it. I’ll keep you posted. Best to you, Gail

[@amyhoop9651]

This is the best waking video I have ever seen. Thank you so much for putting the level of detail into your videos so I can correct my mistakes and incorporate proper moving mechanics which will probably stop my back pain I get while walking.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you enjoyed it. Thanks.

[@davidmead6337]

Hey Todd. I too am/was an M.D. Grad University of British Columbia 1975. Still walking and working every muscle and tendon with my dogs along with me. All the best to you. Dr. David

[@ToddMartinMD]

Awesome. Thank you.

[@nancye7520]

Thanks! Two weeks out from shoulder surgery, I went for my first walk yesterday after being pretty sedentary. I went out at my usual pace and one knee sort of ‘went out’ or collapsed on me and took my breath away. I started again and over a 10-min slow walk, it did it 3 more times. I’ve never had knee issues ever. I also noticed I was toeing in and catching my toe on my other foot. I think everything got verrry soft and lax while I was healing the shoulder. I’m going to start again but slowly and intentionally like you have shown here.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Give it time. Muscles weaken very quickly with disuse but they also strengthen quickly with activity.

[@mohammedmustapha2765]

I am 62 n hve knee pain on the outer side of my right knee. So I decided walking to see if it would help relief the pain. While I was walking I noticed tht many ppl were walking differently. So I wanted to know if im walking correctly and thts how I came to ur channel and I love the way u explained the mechanics of walking. After watching ur channel I hve to relearn how to walk. Never did I realize tht there were so much going on in walking n I hve put in practise ur advise about walking correctly n confidently. Thks a million . ❤❤

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@buqwik525]

Thank you for your straight forward video. At age 77, 5' 8"it is hard to keep in shape. Though I do a 3 mile walk as much as I can, you made me aware of my short comings in my daily walk routine. Again, thank you. So far I dropped from 213 lbs to 188lbs. Goal is 173 lbs. Obviously, I have work to do.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Great job, and I am glad you enjoyed the video.

[@limboonjoo9627]

😊😊 my mom mo no no no😊

[@buqwik525]

Thanx for "cheering us on". i seem to "stuck at 188 lbs. I cut out ice cream and other such items. What's next??!! (LOL) Thanx in advance@@ToddMartinMD

[@alysononoahu8702]

I'm 65, very uncoordinated. Such good information and lots to remember. Many thanks 😊

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad you liked it.

[@VicBxxx]

I was diagnosed with an anterior pelvic tilt on my right side by our good old NHS in the UK - I was given some impossible exercises that made no difference but your walking video has just shed light on what is happening - I also wondered what was causing my hard cracked heels and now I know!thank you so much - you are the God of walking!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks. I am glad you found the information helpful.

[@mizanniemule]

I’m 80 years old had a stroke a year ago. Am working on relearning how to walk correctly with a un cooperative left side. Your videos and philosophy have helped me I also try to do tai chi in my own limited way. I can do more now than when I started. Thanks for your careful explanations. Lynda 4:40

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@jancyewinter7015]

I have had a double hip replacement so this is just what I needed as I have tendency to wobble when I walk. Man,y thanks from Australia!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@ernestteam9417]

Thank you for a very clear expletive video on walking. I can recognize numerous problems in my own way of walking particularly my posture. I am saving this vid to remind me of your knowledgeable guidelines.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I hope you find it helpful with your practice

[@tukitoria01]

OMG!! What a great teacher you are!!! Thank you☺

[@ToddMartinMD]

You are very welcome.

[@rmcguirephoto]

I have recently had two unicompartmental knee replacements for osteoarthritis and find myself having to relearn how to walk. It's been eight years since I could walk without pain, and I was probably walking badly before that time, which contributed to my problems. I've been an avid walker all my life, but never learned the mechanics of it until now. I'm seeing a physiotherapist who is helping me strengthen muscles such as glutes that help to maintain balance when walking. I was very happy to find your video that explained so clearly the basic walking mechanics, as well as why to do it this way. As I relearn how to walk, I'll be referring back regularly to this video as well as checking out your other videos on this subject. Thanks very much!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Fantastic.

[@lrobbo90]

Thanks for this video - I had an MS relapse in 2019 and struggle to walk further than half a mile - after thinking I had terrible foot drop, a neurophysio has advised the problem actually stems from a weak core/pelvis! These videos are really helping, I’m hoping to get to walking further when I can learn how to walk properly again! :) x

[@ToddMartinMD]

Wonderful!. Thank you for sharing that.

[@joycewright5386]

Wow that is exactly my problem and I miss going for long walks so much!

[@smack7939]

What brought me here is, I caught an image of myself in profile while walking and saw that I'm leaning forward a ton! So, I think my foot pain may be caused by my incorrect walking technique. And, I immediately recognized Balboa Park garden! San Diego is my second home town. Thank you for your clear content!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. I am glad you found the channel. Great awareness to connect your leaning forward to your foot pain. I hope the content here helps.

[@georgecav]

I teach similar ‘Positive walking’ in my martial arts classes and its great to see this talked about but I think it can be simplified and I use kin hin or zen walking as a foundation which is what my master taught me. I do also think that a blunt instruction to walk with feet parallel needs to be far more nuanced as it may do more harm than good to those with established patterns that don’t conform to this. Finally related to this there is a whole issue of where your heel should strike first and then the question of how the foot progressively contacts the ground.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I discuss much of those other issues in other videos. A top 10 isn’t meant to go into too much detail, although I trie to give some. I agree that trying to fix out-toeing can be difficult or even counterproductive if their body has confirmed over years to that position. In my videos I do tell people not to try and force their feet into a position. I teach how to move to core correctly, and that should naturally place the feet properly if the person is still anatomically lined up correct. I discuss where the heel should strike in other videos that are focused on the subject, as well as how to gradually change weight properly.

[@srg3798]

Great tip on the position of palms relative to the thighs as caused by the shoulder forward position. I would never have thought of that.

[@ToddMartinMD]

You will see it all the time with people who walk with duck feet.

[@welfordnewton5965]

Liked the first!!! Always look at the Horizon, learning a lot ,cant wait I'm ready for my daily walk. Thank You!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Awesome, thank you!

[@gangavarapu100]

Thank you, very nice video. I am 64 walking for the several years. Height 5'9 and weight:72kgs. Enjoying good Health. No BP and No diabetes. Thank you once again, I am also participating in Masters Atheletes Competitions in National Levels.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Sounds like you have a great habits. Keep it going.

[@justachat8794]

Thank you Tod. So when papa and mama got excited and told everyone, their child just started to learn how to walk, it was premature. It seems even as adults , we are still leaning how to walk! Having given up the car altogether, it seems learning how to walk correctly, is even more important to complete every journey safely without damaging your walking transportation system! 🙏

[@ToddMartinMD]

Absolutely.

[@sorbabaric1]

I have played the piano, ridden horses, played soccer, and do yoga. I’m amazed how some principles cross over. Sally Swift in her Centered Riding book uses the string from the top of the head visualization. Even the class I took in improving our speaking voice, taught by an opera singer & voice coach, started with posture, then breathing. In yoga, many movements help with axial lengthening, and posture.

[@ToddMartinMD]

It really is amazing how movement patterns cross over. The same movement patterns apply in walking, Tai Chi, and Tango, the disciplines I practice regularly. The only difference is in the sequencing of the movements.

[@rayafilms]

Another great walking video and real motivation to get practising!

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you liked it James.

[@trudidavis1273]

Thank you for sharing I am learning a lot how too walk correct.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Excellent.

[@thesurgepartybandnj5426]

Thanks for your video. I’m currently home rehabbing from hip replacement surgery and walking an hour a day on the treadmill. Your tips are very helpful and I’m implementing them right away 😃👍

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad they are helpful. I wish you the best with your recovery.

[@goodbyegut5177]

Thank you Dr. Martin! I will share this video with all my clients for sure. Since I work with men over 50 and I have always recommended walking as the most easy and enjoyable exercise one can do, these tips of yours are GOLDEN!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Wonderful!

[@SirFriess]

Thank you for the video. My main issues when walking are that I'll lose my balance easily, which causes me to trip, drift to the left or right when I'm trying to walk straight, and also that I'll put too much weight on one of my heels while walking, causing my ankles to be sore by the end of the day. I really just want to be able to walk confidently and properly, especially since I'm tall.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Practice the techniques on my channel and I am sure you will get there

[@donnaf2666]

I'm 62 have plantar fasciitis, flat footed, but I came here due to my left hip and thigh muscles contracting. Thank you for the videos. I walk heavy and saw what you said about it. Going to try this. 😊

[@ToddMartinMD]

I hope this helps. Be patient because it does take time to make changes to your gait.

[@BeHealthyEnough]

Thank you so much! I have so many clients that come to me with aches and pain thinking I can help them "exercise" them away when what they need to do is fix what they do daily - walking sitting, standing, reading their mobile devices. Your video was PERFECT and I just love your energy. I subscribed!!!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks very much

[@golfingmags5]

I am almost 75 and since stopping golf have been sitting around a lot. I bought some sketchers and have started walking for an hour each day but my neck and shoulders have been aching because I am leaning forward so delighted to have found your videos and tips🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@ToddMartinMD]

Welcome to the channel. I am glad you found me.

[@golfingmags5]

@@ToddMartinMD I will need to binge watch your videos 🤣…liked when you said “will have to reign in my tendency for over explaining “.

[@amug3536]

REALLY wonderfull well-made video with great demo and explaination. Crisp and clear 👏👏👏👏👏

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you very much

[@margaretmay6501]

Hi Tod I am 76 years old, I have arthritis and chronic back-pain, I enjoyed listening to your top 10 tips. I hate having to use a stick as I was in the past a very active person. I will try to use your tips to help me not only to walk but gain a better posture thank you

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@lewonder3938]

I’m 67, walking 16000 steps per day with speed 3mph. I can sign under all your 10 tips you have said. Great advise.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you and keep moving.

[@xinyangliu-z3x]

Thank you, Dr.Martin. I'm from China and I see your video in Bilibili. I'm grateful for your teaching and surprised that you understand Tai Chi so well. My right knee and ankle are very painful although I'm only 21. I had walked in the wrong way for very long time. I will work hard to change it.

[@ToddMartinMD]

You are very welcome

[@cagedgandalf3472]

I'm 19 and I didn't even know that I didn't know how to walk thanks. Whenever I was running, people and my friends always say that I run weirdly. I never really knew what they were talking about until I watched your video. Why didn't I get these tutorials when learning how to walk? I think it's because for most of my life (in my country) flip flops are the norm.

[@ToddMartinMD]

It is very true that flip flops affect your gait and in countries where flip flops are the norm, duck foot walking is really common.

[@benasnkjv2004]

Hw are u??

[@knishakkher]

Same problem here bro😢

[@aurorafalle759]

@@benasnkjv2004 p

[@benasnkjv2004]

@@aurorafalle759 hi aurora falle

[@EarlLedden]

Excellent explanation of what is wrong any WHY it is wrong and what is right and WHY it is right. Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

You're welcome!

[@gretch23yearsago74]

Amazing video!! I definitely struggle with duckfooted walking. Do you have any extra tips on keeping your feet straight while walking? Whenever I try it just feels awkward, and I can't do it without intense concentration. I feel like I'm doing something wrong haha😅

[@ToddMartinMD]

Hi. There are multiple videos on the channel focused on duck feet. I would watch those and then I would go to my Walking Code Balance and Core Stability Exercise video which is designed to help train the correct movement patterns to align the body.

[@gretch23yearsago74]

@@ToddMartinMD Thank you!!

[@margaretlouis5172]

I had no idea that my gait was incorrect until I reached 65 and found that it was difficult to walk without experiencing pain on my soles. Further investigation reflected flat feet in addition to a need to improve walking gait. It is really helpful to be instructed in such matters as it is life changing.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you found this helpful.

[@LUCKY_10K.]

Any Indian here ❤

[@ojaswiniwalia6979]

Yes

[@ToddMartinMD]

Almost a third of my viewers are from India.

[@sujesh7391]

Yes

[@abdusalam7364]

O yeah.I am from Calicut district.

[@anshamid46]

im from Australia Singapore indian 🎉

[@Dogsnark]

No idea why the algorithm sent your video my way, but I’m glad it did. I walk for exercise daily and now I understand I have some corrections to make! I have knee issues and quite possibly these are exacerbated by my improper stepping form. I’m going to watch the video again and make notes of things I need to correct. (#1 is looking forward, not down!) Thanks for the video.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad the algorithm found you. Welcome to the channel.

[@إلياسالليثي-ك4م]

You Are the best on youtube cover this topic . Thanks alot , I appreciate it. I have a question if you don't mind , I follow all these tips on my walk but I noticed me walk on my toe ! Kind of from toe to toe not Literally . like ballet or like I walk to eavesdrop on someone hhahahaha . Is that ok?

[@ToddMartinMD]

If you are walking on your toes by choice, that is different than if you are not able to walk heel to toe. The most efficient way to walk (faster and using less energy) is heel to toe. The inability to walk heel to toe could indicate some type of neurologic condition, sometimes one that you are born with. If you can't walk heel to toe, you may want to get that checked out.

[@إلياسالليثي-ك4م]

It's just a habit I've had since my teens because of an advice I got from a (non-professional) friend that it strengthens my calf muscle and makes me look taller and it give a classy look ! , but I'll try to change it. Thank you Thank you Thank you Mr Todd

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks for clarifying. You should use calf raising exercises if you are trying to build muscles. You shouldn't change your gait to an unnatural one to try and put extra stress on the muscles, which is what that does. As to looking taller, you probably won't fool anyone walking on your toes.

[@soleikam6662]

Great video. I have a Morton's foot. Any suggestions on the heel to toe?

[@soleikam6662]

Check if you have a Morton's foot

[@taijiclassicist4017]

Excellent understanding of the mechanics of walking. Dr Martin has a very good understanding of the role and function of the spine. All movement is initiated in the spine. Period! Proper initiation from the spine will clear up most of one’s other problems with walking and can be applied to all one’s movement.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks for the comment. Of course I could not agree more.

[@user-mc9po8my9l]

this man walks perfect. In many other videos, tutors walk somewhat weird, unnatural

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks

[@stupidhandles]

Nope, heal to toe is not a natural walk, only possible due to shoes

[@ToddMartinMD]

@@stupidhandles I walk barefoot all the time heel to toe, and early humans walked heel to to before the invention of modern footwear. That is what the fossil evidence shows. If you have heel pain from walking heel to toe, then you are not walking correctly. Again, I ask what research you are basing your assertion on, or are you just making it up yourself?

[@ToddMartinMD]

@@stupidhandles You may want to ask yourself why the heel bone (calcaneus) is the largest and most dense bone in the foot if it wasn't meant to be stepped on. I am pretty sure it evolved before shoes.

[@ToddMartinMD]

@@kingred06 You are 100 percent correct. Heel first walking is the normal gait for locomotion, getting someplace efficiently on a normal surface. We are adapted to walk on any part of our foot depending on the situation. Sneaking around or walking through dense forests for hunting would require moving in different ways, including forefoot walking. I address this in my long video discussion of forefoot vs heel strike walking. I walk forefoot when dancing tango. There are all sorts of reasons to vary walking foot strike, but for normal getting around, heel strike is the correct form. Many people argue that is incorrect and that heel strike is harmful. That is an incorrect assertion. What you said is spot on.

[@williampierce2356]

Thank you so very much doctor for sharing this video. I too have noticed how my walking has been failing me and I knew something was wrong but I did not know. But I do now because I've watched your video and I shall be paying closer attention and living with the life that I should and the stride in my step. God bless

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you enjoyed it. Thank you very much.

[@FAMBEEZO]

Instructions unclear - ended up in the hospital

[@ToddMartinMD]

Best wishes on your recovery

[@loriwilliamson5738]

Would you please show an example of walking up a hill? This video was off the charts! Thank you.

[@ToddMartinMD]

You’re welcome. I have several videos on the channel focused on walking uphill so just go to the Supplemental Walking Lessons Playlist to take a look

[@Oru_kadhai_solata]

2 year old kids in 2040:

[@rumichacajoy]

Ever since sciatica began I have had a problem with walking and only enjoy it when the pain is only slight. For months now I have wondered how I could get back to my former speed walking while keeping my head up. This video came up in my youtube feed and when I recognized you being in Balboa Park walking in my old manner I knew that I would watch more of your videos and will look forward to my twice daily walks. Mahalo for making these videos. Aloha, Joy

[@ToddMartinMD]

I hope you can get back to your walking. Welcome to the channel.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Let me know in the comments what first got you interested in looking for videos on walking technique. Did you notice a problem with your own walking? Did someone tell you you had a problem with the way you walked? Did you have pain that you thought might be related to the way you walk? Let me know.

[@beleninus]

Not knowing how to walk properly got me here. Thank you, you are a God sent and will definitely share this video.

[@ToddMartinMD]

@@beleninus Thank you very much.

[@countessroadkill9599]

Yeah, no, the algorithm sent me. Thank fuck, too, I was sick of crawling and rolling everywhere.

[@stevemcferrin2652]

Revisiting your page to determine if --and how-- my gait (heel\toe strike) may have contributed to injury of second and third toes.

[@alefiyataher]

Sir your video is very helpful to me. I have rheumatoid arthritis in my big toes in both my feet. My doctor suggested i learn to walk correctly and not heavily. Thank you so much for explaining so well with relevant corrective exercises.

[@glenngordon2792]

Thanks! Yes, did find errors in my walking that were causing knee pains.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Excellent.

[@whalesong8040]

Dear Dr. Martin; I've just discovered you and so grateful for your gentle, clear guidance! I so appreciate the Tai Chi references, as I am a practitioner of QiGong. I'm recovering from a possible torn acetabular labrum and lumbar radiculopathy/arthritis, leftover from lumbar surgery in summer 2020. Walking and standing greatly exacerbate my back pain, and I'm well aware of many bad fixated patterns in my movement and bearing (and mental formations!). Your video gives me great food for thought to see how I might better unwind some of that, which makes me feel more hopeful for the first time in a long time. Looking forward to viewing your other offerings! Many thanks for your generous gifts! All Blessings!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. Welcome to the channel.

[@sharondavid-melly1498]

78 recent first time sciatica pain for two months even with chiropractor adjustments. My doctor says not to overdo but I'm looking forward to walking properly. Thank you for instructing in detail so clearly.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. I sure you will do great.

[@vanrajsindha9918]

Thank u for your valuable information about walking..... I walk 5000 steps every day.... I found that for me its more beneficial mentally than physically... Physical to but mentally more.... My knee pain went away after few days i started walking.......

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you have enjoyed the videos and your walking

[@chandansubba0079]

I'm so happy mann! I'm soo happy, glad that you thought about us i have my respect for you from bottom of my ❤

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure

[@mizanniemule]

I walk with a cane which makes walking correctly a challenge. This is all so new to me. Pre stroke, I didn’t think about walking, I just walked. Now, I’m learning about neurotic plasticity and teaching my brain to learn new tricks. Love your explanations. Well thought out simple and clear. 6:15

[@ToddMartinMD]

So glad you are enjoying the information.

[@prettypothos4me290]

Wonderful video! Since retiring, I do it all wrong. In the home, we use such small, often sideways steps, and in my gardens I need to look down a lot. I know I am leaning forward all the time now.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Even with small steps in the home, whatever direction, the key is to stay vertical. It just takes practice and awareness.

[@jeanneratterman]

I recognize the t’ai chi movements. And what a great tie in to proper walking. Thank you! I needed this. I just committed to myself to start walking tomorrow morning. 🎉 and do it everyday even if only a few steps a day more each day. 😊

[@ToddMartinMD]

Awesome plan. That will create a great habit

[@cwong6204]

Dr. Martin, I’m a tai chi practitioner. I’m pleasantly surprised to see you using tai chi/qi gong principles to explain good walking. Great video!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad you enjoyed it. My movement system is rooted in the 8 Postures and Trigrams, with my own analysis that I apply to general movement.

[@emmyemmer]

Thank you, finally some explanation of the heel strike. Had plantair fasciitis and Saw videos recommending forefoot strike and it does not feel normal and hurt my legs. but I didn't want to get the footpain again. With the correct technique I hope to be able to take longer walks again

[@ToddMartinMD]

I’m glad you found the video.I hope it helps. Forefoot walking is not the proper way to walk.

[@Niafifia]

I started walking my dog more and then just happened upon a youtube walking video. That has brought more walking videos into my feed and how I found your video. I've also been working on my posture more than ever due to chronic pain issues. Having good information on posture and walking has been key. This video is well-made and has been most helpful. Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad it has been helpful. Happy walking.

[@mrjackolanterns]

This guy is awesome. I really like how he references tai-chi a few times too. I'm willing to bet he's an avid practitioner of the arts. Thanks dude!

[@ToddMartinMD]

Appreciate your comment, and yes I am a regular Tai Chi practitioner.

[@mrjackolanterns]

​@@ToddMartinMD I just watched your 108 form tai-chi upload. Awesome stuff! I'm digging your energy. Subbed for sure.

[@Cottercakes]

I’ve been having issues with plantar fasciitis and foot/heel pain, especially after long walks, despite wearing proper shoes and stretching. I am looking for information to help prevent injury and preserve my feet. Your videos have been helpful! Thank you!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure. Glad it has been helpful.

[@cz1mmt]

I clicked on this with the intention of destroying his advise as there many self proclaimed experts who claim we walk by pushing off. The human body is not designed to walk that way it is what walking with shoes and paved ground has created. He was very informative. The only thing negative is what he didn't say. The human body was not intended to walk on paved or finished ground. Most urbanites including himself don't pick up their feet, they swing the legs. That aside it was the best walking video I've seen.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks for your comment. Fortunately, humans are one of the most adaptable species out there, and we can adapt to walk on many different surfaces. Our gait has many variations depending on the nature of the terrain we are on. In this video I am discussing flat terrain. The leg picks up exactly as much as needed, not more. This would be the same gait used on the plains of Africa during our evolutionary period.

[@revathyshankar8]

Great help to me having both knee pain i started swinging that is corrected i sm learning how to walk through u.Thanks a Lot.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Glad to year that.

[@pamelazarick7334]

Hello Dr Martin, My hip hurts badly when I walk. I saw your name first then the topic and immediately watched the video. I can't wait to use these tips hoping for improvement in hip pain. I see already a few tips are very much needed: looking forward, keeping feet forward and, shoulders back. Thanks so much for sharing and I hope all is well. Nice to visit your video! Pam Z

[@ToddMartinMD]

Welcome to the channel.

[@JamieWessell]

I hope this helps me, as I am 80 years old and broke my left hip, trying to learn how to walk is hard on me, thank you for showing me . Never new I would have so much trouble.

[@ToddMartinMD]

You can do it. Just have patience.

[@semperfidelis2970]

Walking is a love of mine and has been all my long life. It was interesting to watch this and I picked up a couple of pointers.

[@ToddMartinMD]

I am glad you liked it.

[@eleanorlebrecht]

Thank you so very much for your video. I am turning 79 y/o this month. I am normally a very active person who has hobbies and I am always learning new things. I am not a person with a retiring mind. Eighteen months ago I got the excess fat removed from my upper arms. I was tired of swinging pouches of fat out of the way when I sweep or wash dishes. It was very annoying and downright unhandy. The brachioplasty went very well and I healed quite rapidly. But after the operation I felt a little off kilter in my mobility and I did not seem to be as well balanced. I was afriaid someone in the operating room had said something that stuck in my mind, like hold still, etc. Then in another four months as I was almost healed from brachioplasty I got surgvery for my vericose veins. I was in so much pain in my legs I could barely walk. So I avoided walking. I felt like I was ready for the nursing home. The pain eventually subsided. But this lack of good mobility was still going on for 13 months, I still was not walking well. I was doing better with everything I was doing to include the zero shoes, foot stretches and more but I was just barely getting around. It seemed like I lost my balance and I had been doing all sorts of exercises like standing on one foot at a time and more. Every thing I could get on you tube or so I thought. Then I got one of those elliptical machines that works my feet and legs and it is a God send and it loosened me up. I was more mobile. I am still using it and will continue but I was still not walking well or far as I want. THEN...your walking video seems to be the last piece of the puzzle I needed. After watching your video I began to do as you suggest. And right away I made a big shift in walking better. The worst thing I was doing was turning my hands where my knuckles were facing forward, bent over and walking like an ape. As soon as I turned my hands towards the outter sides of my thighs the magic started. Then I focused on swinging my hands with the cross crawl motions. Left hand forward while right foot forward and alternating. Then I added pointing my feet forward and walking soft heel to rolling up on my foot and I did better. Now I am focusing on standing upright and looking forward. I need to focus on one technique at a time to set up new habits. In less than a week I am moving along. I am very impressed at how fast this made a turn around for me. Now to just keep it up to regain my leg strength and a longer stride. I am not avoiding getting up to put a dish away and such. This takes some purposeful attention and focus but your video instructions are spot on for me. Thank you for making and sharing your walking video.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I could not be more pleased that my videos are helping you.

[@НадіяБойко-и4у]

Thank you,dr.Todd,wish you success

[@sunvaj6754]

Thanks for sharing! Not many people are aware of this subject.

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure.

[@brentbaumgartner1198]

Great video! I wish I has seen this a year ago when it was first posted. I do follow these tips, discovered by trial and error, but would have been just as happy to watch the detailed instructions before hand, as you laid them out. Thanks!

[@ToddMartinMD]

My pleasure

[@angusmackaskill3035]

Been walking ever since I was 1, didn't know it came with it instructions. This could have been life changing.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Think about it this way. There is no real difference between walking and dancing. Some people are natural dancers and some are terrible at it, but can improve with instruction. Walking is the same.

[@martynjones4755]

Hi Tod I am an Alexander Technique teacher. I liked your video a lot. But I found it mutch to completed for most non doctors. You mentioned easing up but didn't enfisise the neck releasing. So allowing the body to free up minimising tension. Before you move. A very good 8 out of 10.

[@ToddMartinMD]

Thanks for your comment. It’s always a challenge to give enough information to make something meaningful while not going over the heads of most viewers. I see a lot of videos that present things very simply but also aren’t really saying anything significant enough for someone to make a substantial change in what they are doing. I will continue to work on finding the right balance.