Walking is one of the best exercises for health. It is most effective when done with a free mind, without distractions, ensuring that the walker remains focused. But is there a set pattern you should walk in to reap maximum benefits? Apparently, yes.
According to an Instagram reel by ‘yogawithshakti’, the 8-shaped walk or infinity walk has “infinite benefits”. But what is it?
“In today’s fast-paced world, many people treat morning walks as social activities, often chatting with friends in person or over the phone, which can detract from the potential health benefits,” said Dr Aashish Chaudhry, managing director, senior consultant, and head, department of orthopaedics and joint replacement, Aakash Healthcare. “Among various walking exercises, the 8-shaped walking exercise stands out. This method is praised for its numerous health benefits. Practicing this exercise for 15-30 minutes daily can yield results,” said Dr Chaudhry.
But before we dive into its benefits, here’s a guide from Dr Chaudhry on how to practice it.
*Perform this exercise in the morning, evening, or on an empty stomach. Choose an open space or a room where you can walk, said Dr Chaudhry.
*Start walking along an 8-shaped imaginary path, moving from north to south and back, alternating between clockwise and anticlockwise directions. Walk for 15 minutes in each direction.
*After completing the 8-shaped walk, you can perform simple breathing exercises, shared Dr Chaudhry.
Why do this?
Dr Chaudhry said that practicing the 8-shaped walking exercise regularly can bring about a sense of rejuvenation, making a person feel youthful and healthier. “Walking barefoot stimulates reflex points on the palms and soles, which correspond to various internal organs. The 8-shaped path causes the body, particularly the hips and abdomen, to twist, activating internal organs. The deep breathing involved ensures a high oxygen intake, energising the body and improving lung function,” said Dr Chaudhry.
Try this kind of walk (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
According to Dr Chaudhry, regular practice can alleviate headaches, obesity, knee pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
“Gentle 8-shaped walking helps reduce blood pressure and relieves various types of pain, including foot cracks and knee pain. Even those who are elderly or paralysed can benefit from this exercise, either independently or with assistance. This exercise can help manage conditions such as shoulder, neck, back, and lumbar pain, cervical and lumbar spondylitis, sciatica, disc prolapse, depression, epilepsy, migraines, sleeplessness, and heart diseases,” said Dr Chaudhry.
However, Bala Krishna Reddy Dabbedi, fitness expert, co-founder and director at FITTR, said that 8-shaped walk “does not have any additional benefits when compared to a straight walk”. “Walking is a good activity for any person which has its benefits like letting you have a small amount of muscle in your legs, helps you develop good muscular endurance in leg muscles and also helps you burn some calories and these benefits are same for person who walks in a straight line or in 8- shape method,” said Reddy Dabbedi.
