Walking Backwards Can Save Your Knees As You Age, Here's How

Walking is a commonly recommended way to engage in physical activity, offering numerous health advantages and supporting weight loss. However, walking backwards can be even better for your overall health. Reverse walking, retro walking or walking backwards can make you stronger and smarter. Studies suggest that walking backwards can have surprising benefits for both your physical health and your brain. However, many are still unfamiliar with the unique benefits of this unusual exercise.

Benefits of walking backwards for knees

Walking backwards isn't as natural as walking forward. It makes you work harder both physically and mentally. Walking backwards is especially beneficial to your knees.

• Reverse walking helps increase your knee's range of motion. While walking backwards, your bent knee straightens fully as you move from your toes onto your heel.
• When walking backwards, the mechanics of movement shift, leading to less stress on the knee joint compared to forward walking.
• Walking backwards also engages muscle groups, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. These muscles help support the knee joint by improving overall stability.
• Backwards walking is a part of the rehabilitation program for those recovering from knee injuries. The reduced stress on the knees while walking backwards is helpful.

Other health benefits of walking backwards

Improves balance and posture

1. Walking backwards demands more balance

Walking backwards demands coordination. It helps you maintain balance and correct posture overtime.

2. Enhances cognitive function

Walking backwards requires more concentration and body awareness. It helps improve cognitive function and increases focus.

3. Helps burn calories

Just like walking normally, reverse walking helps burn calories. Also, it requires more effort and energy compared to walking in the traditional way.

Make sure that you practice reverse walking in a safe environment to prevent falls and injuries.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.