Fitness

Reverse those steps.

(OK, maybe not that last one.)

Heres what happens to your body when you flip it and reverse it.

Why people on TikTok are walking backwards.

Specifically,youre putting anextra focus on your quads.

And its benefits go beyond boosting your lower body strength.

It cando wonders for nagging knee pain.

The benefits of walking backwards.

Thats because it balances themuscles in your legsso that they offer more support.

As a bonus, it might also be good for your noggin.

Walking backward can provide cognitive benefits, says Hamlin.

Go ahead, try walking backwards.

It requires increased focus and concentration, potentially stimulating the brain.

As you stroll, focus on standing up straight, keeping your core engaged, and maintaining balance.

Then, try working your way up to 10 minutes.

While people might look at you sideways in the gym, itll be worth it for all those benefits.

Studies referenced:

Cha, HG.

(2016).Therapeutic efficacy of walking backward and forward on a slope in normal adults.

J Phys Ther Sci.

Epub 2016 Jun 28.

PMID: 27390443; PMCID: PMC4932084.

(2019).Effectiveness of backward walking training on balance performance: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Source:

Michael Hamlin, NSCA, CSCS, personal trainer, founder ofEverflex Fitness