The REAL Reason You Lean Forward When Walking (50+)

To subscribe to 3-Tip Friday, Will's free weekly email where he shares his best health tips, new videos and fascinating research, go here: info.ht-physio.co.uk/3tf
To get a copy of Will's new book, Thriving Beyond Fifty, you can find it on Amazon below:
UK link: amzn.to/3mAISFv
US link: amzn.to/3J1ACGi
(Amazon Affiliate links) Follow us on Instagram for more content: / htphysioofficial
In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals the REAL reason you lean forward when walking - and what to do about it!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
To get in touch about sponsorships or promos, send a message to: [e-mail]
If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...

[@davidbarnett9312]

I stumbled across Will over a year ago. I watched his 'sit in a chair' stomach crunch video and started doing those exercises religiously. A year later now at 80, I've dropped from waist size 42 to 35, dropped my weight from 205 to my latest visit to my cardiologist 171. I do 100 crunches a day, 10 to 15 leg squats, and 30 wall push-ups. My balance is great now, getting up from the floor works, so now my next target will be to stop stooping. Thanks, Will.

[@Tex_I_Can]

AWESOME! Congratulations! That is a motivational moment.

[@sandrajohnston9745]

While I don't have any hip problems that I am aware of, 3 years ago I had a T-lif fusion of L3, 4, 5 and S1. I still cannot walk fast or stand up straight while walking. My back is very tight and the pressure on my back muscles fatigue them quickly. (I am 77 years old.) I am going to try these exercises anyway and see if they help. I will send a link to this video to my inbox and then every morning when I check my email I will be reminded to do the exercises. Do you have any other suggestions for helping my leaning forward problem?

[@helenamcginty4920]

I read the start.....I stumbled across Will.....and immediately thought you'd stumbled over Will as he was lying down 😂😂😂😂😂 Old eyes that only half see the words and make stuff up.

[@rouxbea2]

Bravo! That's just fabulous!

[@valentinat3250]

Awesome!!!

[@Joelswinger34]

With me it's a self-esteem thing. I keep on having to remind myself to stand up straight.

[@junechristie2497]

Know that you are wonderfully made in the image of God, that He loves you and created you for a purpose - that is to know Him and allow Him to live in your heart. That's why He sent His Son to die for all our sins in order to have His eternal life and love. This thought and truth should cause you to stand up straight Jesus loves you❤

[@justrosy5]

That's not a self-esteem thing. What you've been told about that is a lie. It's because of the heavy backpack you were forced to wear as a child, and the mis-shapen chairs they forced us all to sit in for 12 years as our bones grew. Literally, this is NOT your fault.

[@ivaleeweather]

I know exactly why I lean forward. It relieves pressure on the back.

[@SuperDrLisa]

My sister thought so too...she needed a hip replacement. Next year is the other. I was also doing the same before my hip replacement. My chiropractor also helped tremendously!

[@grovermartin6874]

Umm, where exactly do I sign up for three tip Friday?

[@i2sky532]

​@SuperDrLisa yes, sometimes we think we know what the issue is...until we work with someone trained. I thought I had arthritis in my knee. Turns out, my glutes were weak. Strengthened them and knee pain went away

[@grahamnewton4381]

More very good advice. One of the main problems I see frequently with older people is that those using walking sticks have them so short that they have to bend over leading to awful posture.

[@cannkotlarz621]

So true, I use cane but they dont seem to make them height extendable.

[@EC-lq3qw]

@cannkotlarz621 Try a walking pole, they are adjustable. You can get them from shops like Go Outdoors. Hope that helps you.

[@edl653]

This was the one piece of my exercise routine that I was missing. I was just noticing I was starting to lean forward when walking. Now I know how to reverse that trend. Thank you!

[@jonrutherford6852]

I've watched many of your videos, as well as ones on other rehab/physical-therapy channels. There are several quite good channels but yours may be the best, at least to my taste: your straightforward, no-frills approach is refreshing. No attempts at standup comedy, no off-topic chatter, just plain good advice and demonstrations of what has worked for other people and may benefit the viewer. Good work!

[@TiredEmpath]

Yes, everything you stated and no background music!

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much - I'm pleased my style and format works for you. Wishing you all the best :)

[@magicunicorn6535]

I second that!

[@Margi183]

Thank you for NO music!! ;)

[@PeterNeville-wq3bj]

I'm 76 and have long had a bit of a stoop. However, it gets much worse when I walk. Now I know why. This is one of the most important videos I've ever seen. I've tried emphasizing my backward hip extension and the results were immediate and greatly improved my tendency to stoop badly when I walk. Thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video was able to shed some light on what you're experiencing - I'm so pleased my video was able to offer you such rapid relief :)

[@rosemarymccammond9899]

Yes, exactly! A real eye opener.

[@lovewings]

I'm in great metabolic health at 91, but your help today gives me hope of becoming much more limber in my waning propulsion strength! Thank you!!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased I'm able to help!

[@lovewings]

I look forward to hearing more of your wise solutions!

[@dustunderourfeet1819]

@lovewings What’s your secret please and thank you?!

[@joeskwara5823]

This guy is consistently very good. Provides good value

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much!

[@cassieoz1702]

Also balance. Folks who are even slightly unsure of their balace they tend to lean, partly to scan the ground ahead

[@craffte]

Proper rehab is just as important as the surgery itself.

[@edennis8578]

I noticed that I was leaning forward after spending 10 years as a stay at home mom. I habitually leaned forward looking for toys on the floor and pets underfoot. Now that I'm 69, I am losing flexibility in my hip joints, just like you said. Thanks for the reminder and the exercises!

[@karphin1]

I have a familial hip dysplasia. My daughter had a hip replacement at 40. My son, aunt and father also had hip problems. I am grateful to have found this site, as I also lean forward when walking!

[@umarae27]

The donkey exercise brought back memories. I honestly thought my foot was about to touch the ceiling fan, but instead, i caught my reflection in the slider door. My foot wasn't even hardly past my buttocks yet!

[@HGCUPCAKES]

Um… 😂

[@TheAAnne123]

I lean forward to see the uneven ground.

[@silverlagomorpha3177]

Can’t see the ground through the bottom lense of your glasses.

[@sophieoshaughnessy9469]

Maybe scout it out a step or two in advance?

[@jvh136]

I know! I can't see the ground if I stand tall. I'm doing these exercises anyway. I need better muscle tone all over.

[@pattybeck5101]

This worked the very first day!!! Thank you.

[@carolinelapham5139]

Will..Thanks From Caroline in Zimbabwe. I am 73 now and a trained (Middlesex Hospital) physio.

[@patriciaelich9702]

I just stumbled across your video and wondered why I didn’t find you sooner. Incredible posture-saving exercises I will be doing daily. I’m 76 yrs old and always had a posture problem. At age 13 I was already 5’7 and all my friends were still at their normal growth height. I would naturally lean over. I’m really looking forward to always standing tall before I lose additional inches. Thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

I always say better later than never! I hope my video can offer some benefit to you now to keep you standing tall :)

[@fransak2723]

You nailed my issue. I always tend to lean forward more at the end of the day when I’m tired. I will add these suggestions to my daily routine. Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video came at the right time!

[@scotthunt2479]

Will is, hands down, one of the best therapists on the Internet. I'm subscribed to his channel, and I just subscribed to his 3-tip Friday. Thanks for all you do, Will.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for subscribing, I really appreciate it - thank you for your support :)

[@suzzem4885]

Fully agree - 🥰

[@marjieestivill]

I’m a pt enthusiast, just found this great pt teacher. Thanks! Now subscribed!

[@joancairns9846]

I am 78 and reasonably healthy but I've noticed recently that my stride has shortened and it makes me feel old. I did your first exercise today while watching the rest of the video. A few minutes later I realized that I was walking more normally and with more spring in my step. That worked fast!! And it's easy and you can do it anywhere. Thanks so much.

[@HT-Physio]

Wow, fantastic to hear you noticed such a drastic improvement! So pleased I was able to help :)

[@michaelkimber6203]

Excellent post. I found myself leaning forward after a knee & hip replacement. This impacts my lower back. I will be employing your techniques from now on. Thanks for this. 👍

[@twilatharp3386]

Hi Will, I'm really glad I found your website. I have a total hip and plate in the acetabulum. 2 yrs. after 11 fractures from a car accident I did a 5K in under 30 minutes when i was in my 30's. And for many, many years no one ever commented on my walking because I spent a lot of time making sure I looked "normal!" Now I'll hit 80 and starting to look awful with this hunchback look which is driving me to distraction. I'm going to try your exercises. Thank you very much. I've also signed up for your Tips. ♥♥♥

[@sarahgilbert8036]

"Please check with your doctor" is just a phrase. No doctor is willing to take as much as 3 minutes to talk about something they can't write a prescription for! Tried the stiff-test: left is good; right a smidge stiffer, but not too bad, so doing this now will fix it fast enough. (65 y.o.)

[@i2sky532]

Direct Healthcare is great for this. They will sit with you an hour, if needed.

[@sarahgilbert8036]

@@i2sky532 right. Never had that happen. Anywhere.

[@sherritamras4973]

Today is the first time i've seen any of your video's i look forward to learning more and have subscribed so i can help my body the best that i can. I appreciate the delivery and your approach and I know i will benefit from your knowledge! Thank you so much!

[@jmas2312]

Thanks. I’ve been trying to figure out how to fix my walking for a while. I’m going to try this.

[@mrking695]

Fantastic. I’ve had poor posture since childhood and now my right hip has pain when I get up from sitting. Now I know why. Thank you.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video could shed some light on what you are experiencing!

[@thechickincharge1073]

After years of trying to manage my pain I finally went to the doctor. I was diagnosed with arthritis, which I knew, but I also know there is more going on. I told my family that I feel like my pain keeps me tethered to the ground and I don’t have full range of motion and can’t walk long distances without something to hold on to, like a grocery cart. I am only 61 and was seeking pain management to help me be able to go back to the gym to get my range of motion back. Sadly, I have been put on two different meds that do nothing for pain and am already weary of feeling like a test subject. I absolutely do not feel like I am being heard by my doctor. I am going to try my best to do these exercises regardless of my leg pain!

[@danicaride]

I'd seek another doctor too...

[@katyaflippinov9197]

Try ginger to help reduce inflammation. There are lots of ginger teas and tea recipes. You can freeze fresh ginger root and/or keep candied ginger on hand if your body can handle sugar. Many foods are linked to inflammation. Arthritis is a disease of inflammation, I think. Turmeric with black pepper can help some with pain. I would just forget about taking pills, but I understand how debilitating pain can be. Good luck.😊😊

[@bres.3449]

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

[@tereyes5633]

Sounds like spinal stenosis. I too was told I needed hip replacement surgery. Problem was in lower lumbar.

[@Sunlightsam24]

I’m surprised he didn’t mention too much sitting which shortens and weakens the hip flexors

[@doreendsouza8862]

I noticed I ve started leaning forward so I stop stand straight n correct my posture .but your video is so educative just what I needed .thankiou Doc

[@charmainekirk1512]

What if you lean forward because you feel weakness and pain like lower back pain but it's in your upper back? Thank you for your work. It's great!

[@goldenlass9488]

This information is life-changing! Thank you 👏🏻

[@stargazerbird]

Wow. Thank you so much. My mother in law has extreme stooping and has had a hip replacement. I never understood why she did it and she always said it was due to weak abs. Sadly, she never did the physio exercises after her surgery despite big encouragement and weekly visits from a physiotherapist. Horse to water.

[@disqusrubbish5467]

Just to reinforce that thought. The physical therapy after a hip replacement is SO important. Anyone out there about to have the surgery, place top priority on the PT afterwards.

[@ninalehman9054]

This showed up in my feed today (5/9/25). I already knew why I lean forward on occasion and you nailed it - my hips. After first standing up, it takes my hips a while to settle down so I can walk halfway normally.

[@mendynoma4272]

Not just for 50+ ! Great for those of us who spent too many years sitting while working! Am happy to be a new subscriber to your channel!

[@patricialyons383]

Thanks Will I have been worried about my stiffness and my gait. You are wonderful- u are a gift hoooooray 🎉😊

[@tinalettieri]

I realized this when I started bending over after sitting a while. I simply get up from my chair. Stand until I straighten up and then walk to where I want to go. I tend to be stiff in the morning but once I've gotten out and moving, I'm fine. If I'm riding the bus, I get up a little before my stop and straighten myself so that I can step off safely and walk upright once off. Any time I've been sitting, I simply do this. Stop, straighten up and proceed.

[@angelaarnold2051]

Tried them and they will be part of my exercise routine from now on. Thank you!

[@stevenrapp2714]

Superb advice. Sports and stretching for 40 years. But you just gave me two new ones. Thank you!

[@yevaburshteyn6938]

I wish I would have in Kaiser a Physical therapist like you. Unfortunately all good professionals gone after Covid.Thanks a lot to be❤

[@Doobeedoo-xd1mw]

Good explanation. Thank you very much.

[@ST52655]

I actually DO have a problem with my back and my entire lower body: Severe, chronic osteoarthritis pain. I have to keep looking down so I don’t trip on uneven surfaces.

[@richardrosebealprestonjohn3144]

Thank you! For that info!

[@janmitchell641]

I’m so glad I opted to watch this one as it’s answered a question that I’ve been concerned about. Thanks for this!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my video was able to shed some light on what you are experiencing!

[@MCM214]

Makes sense even though i was fairly young when i had my hip replaced and have no pain or bsck pain but I noticed i was leaning forward. Tysm for the awesome exercises!!!

[@MultiStats]

I love the clarity. Thank you!

[@JenKirby]

I lean forward on purpose so I can grab hold of something quickly if I start to fall. Also so I can see where the cats and the dog toys are so I don’t trip over them.

[@edennis8578]

I realized that I was doing it in my 30s after being a mom for ten years - always watching for toys on the floor and pets underfoot. I had to get out of the habit when I was out and about. There's nothing like being 34 and seeing yourself all hunched over while walking past a wall of windows in town.

[@JenKirby]

@@edennis8578 I live in a town with very uneven sidewalks. One day when I walking the dogs I fell over as I was waiting for a car to pass. The very nice men jumped out of the car to help me but my legs refused to work so I crawled home (it wasn’t far). I gave one of the men my keys so he could open the door for me and he took one of the dogs so I only had the puppy who was on a leash attached to my waist.

[@patriciasheppard6109]

Thanks! Just what I needed!

[@juliahelland6488]

Thanks for sharing this! 💯 ❣️

[@carlanfoltz8536]

Wonderful information!!

[@boblossie3192]

Wonderful presentation!

[@marybridgethunter7029]

Excellent! Thank you!

[@awalk5177]

Wow, this is exactly my problem after a hip replacement about 9 years ago, now I see and can feel where the problem is. Great tip and I cant wait to see results from these simple exercises.

[@TaraB1134]

Great! Love this and will do it!❤

[@shirleydilleshaw5289]

Love your videos. Very helpful with great explanations and demonstrations Thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased you like them - wishing you all the best :)

[@saraht4973]

Great news. And hope it helps groin pain which seems to make me walk stooped as well

[@meletcl]

This is so helpful and simple! Thank you!

[@HT-Physio]

Very happy to help!

[@philipsamways562]

Excellent explanation and exercises

[@lisaa6099]

Excellent info.

[@hollish196]

In the words of Oliver, "More, please." Loved this one! The attitude of "what the poor eat" right there in the cookbook---now we call these "economical versions."

[@sandyjohnson5111]

I learn forward when I climb stairs. It aligns my knees so they are directly over my ankle and eliminates any knee pain.

[@mattmaddox9976]

Thanks for the explanation! Makes perfect sense now.

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@kathycasey9521]

This seems interesting and simple enough to do. I’m looking forward to trying it.

[@8Olivia8]

This was a fantastic video. Thank you so much for going over the why's and how's.

[@googoo554]

Brilliant as always Will! Much gratitude for all you do.

[@HT-Physio]

My pleasure!

[@oliviaglass3843]

Adding a comment to boost your channel. My favorite physio therapist on Utube.

[@immasher2139]

I absolutely love the 3 TIP FRIDAY email. Thank you, Will. I am not always able to see your videos. The information as well as the links to click on the videos in the 3 TIP FRIDAY email is priceless!

[@pchabanowich]

Great stuff.

[@robinamorris9553]

Stroke survivor here over 50 pleased I found you

[@magpie1492]

I work in the health service, encouraging elderly people out of bed or a chair to mobilise is a big part of my job. I am constantly asking people to look ahead and not at the floor and tuck their bottoms in. So thank you for the explanation 😊.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for the work you're doing - I hope my video can offer similar support to others!

[@maurahoulihan7036]

I have had3 knee replacements over 9 years and none successful,recently had hip replacement on the same side, little or know knee bend so exercise difficult and walking so badly

[@megteal3658]

I enjoy all your videos and find them very helpful. I have this problem but unable to do the last two exercises due to knee arthritis.

[@kendylhoudyshell1399]

Excellent set of exercises Will, thanks so much for the video and easy to follow directions ❤

[@HT-Physio]

Very happy to be of help :)

[@shirleysmith9421]

Thanks Will your exercises are very helpful to us Peace to All Stay Safe!😂😊😂😊❤❤❤❤💞💞💖💪🦾💪💪🦾💪🦾💯❤💯🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍

[@HeavenlyLights]

wow. Great explanation and solutions. Thankyou

[@HT-Physio]

Very happy to help :)

[@dinahmoore7002]

Just what I’ve been looking for. ❤

[@dinapawlow1622]

❤wow! So helpful! So grateful for this posting.❤

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased I could help :)

[@sophieamirian6726]

THANKS A MILLION ❤ VERY USEFUL AND INFORMATIVE VIDEO ❤

[@petgranny194]

Very helpful.

[@mrb257]

Thank you Mr Harlow.Let me start doing the exercises!

[@HT-Physio]

I hope they prove beneficial for you :)

[@judyxyz9948]

Definitely a leaner! And I did blame my back after I had a fall and fractured my spine. But I'm going to start these exercises immediately since years later I still don't walk upright. And the stairs are impossible. I really lean going up the stairs. Thank you so much for the advice. Judy

[@rc24888]

Great points, Wil!🎉

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you!

[@user-lo6kp4zq1o]

Excellent presentation

[@jacquelinebasley6516]

Gosh! I wish you were local to me, everything you say makes such sense, I wish other health care professionals knew as much as you, I wouldn't be in absolute agony every day. Thank you so much for your videos!

[@HT-Physio]

I'm just pleased I have the platform on which to reach people that I can't see in person! Wishing you all the very best :)

[@plumeria8357]

I needed this. Thanks!

[@HT-Physio]

Glad it was helpful!

[@aribella6913]

Wow these exercises were just what I needed

[@parveenansari8946]

I hadn't seen your table donkey exercise but I was doing it n found out that it's really helpful.thankyou dr. Will start with the other exercises you showed

[@marieschmidt9416]

Very helpful video as it is very easy for me to start to lean forward when walking daily.

[@elisacohenusa]

I’m going to try these with my mom. She’s been learning forward more lately

[@HT-Physio]

I hope my video can offer some help - wishing you and your mum all the best :)

[@brotoubrotou3164]

Always easily understandable exercises and stretches however whatever one does on one side should always be repeated on the other side.

[@joanwalford1959]

Very informative video. I believe this is why Imbend forward when I walk. I have a lot of back pain

[@cynthialocher393]

Thank you I would enjoy your Friday tip

[@HT-Physio]

Hi there - you can sign up using the following link :) ht-physio.co.uk/3-tip-friday/

[@VASHON-ve6ki]

You are so great!! 🙏

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much!

[@JamesWhite-cr5ys]

Thank you.

[@lindaprice6242]

I'm 68 and can't do any of these exercises. People use canes for back, knee or hip pain. Please give chair or bed exercises.

[@RR35592]

Going to give this a try.

[@disqusrubbish5467]

Oh, interesting. I'll try these. Thank you.

[@bodvargregersen5161]

Bloody good! Cannot wait to start using these exercises for tight hip flexors. Thanks, Will.

[@HT-Physio]

Glad you like them!

[@mabelheinzle2275]

Thank you very very much

[@Aliceinwonderland-zr7xq]

Thank you very much for your exercises demo.❤from Singapore

[@HT-Physio]

You're so welcome!

[@sagecosta6550]

Thank you