Heel-to-toe walking

Heel-to-toe walking trains dynamic balance, coordination and walking stability.
Intensity: Beginner
Recommended repetitions: 15-20 steps each leg

Before you get into your workout it’s important to warm up. Just 5 minutes of light activity is all you need. Things like:

Walking
Jogging on the spot
Pumping your arms
Shoulder rolls
Controlled punches
Circular ‘windmill’ arm movements in the air.

1. Stand next to a wall or bench for support.
2. Place one foot in front of the other, heel-to-toe, like you’re walking on a tightrope.
3. Walk forwards in this position in a straight line, placing your heel directly in front of your toe and keeping both toes facing forward.

Exercise notes: Stand next to a wall, bench or desk for support.

To make this exercise more challenging, try walking backwards while maintaining the heel-to-toe position in a straight line.

Disclaimer: Stand near a stable support if you have balance concerns. 

 

After your workout, cool down by following any of the above activities, again for 5 minutes. This is also a great time to stretch your muscles holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds. Make sure you hold at a point where you can feel the stretch but you shouldn’t feel discomfort or pain. Don’t bounce through these, just slow steady movements.

Disclaimer: If you have been inactive for a while, have heart disease, or a close relative with heart disease or if you have other major health problems, or are pregnant, please check with your doctor before following these workouts.

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