Australian scientist Dr Karl has revealed the unlikely physical and neurological benefits of walking backwards – and why you shouldn’t let ‘looking funny’ get in the way of your health.
The beloved doctor said retro ambulation strengthens the muscles on the front of your thighs and the muscles on the back of your buttocks.
‘It puts less of a load on the knee joint on the inside and the back so you don’t get any extra pain there,’ he said in a video.
Scientists also previously found that walking backwards boosts your short-term memory.
Studies show that retro walking can sharpen people’s minds, and help those with knee osteoarthritis and chronic back pain.
Dr Karl said walking backwards improves your sense of proprioception – which is when you know where your body parts are.
‘You’re less likely to trip and fall because you’re walking in an unusual way because of that sense.’
Dr Karl recommended starting with 30 second bursts of walking backwards at one-third normal walking speed.
‘By the time you’re able to walk 10 minutes at normal speed, you are so much stronger!’ he said.
However, you should beware that walking backwards can increase your likeliness to fall and hit your head.
Dr Karl recommended taking a guide and taking turns walking backwards for an added layer of safety.
Many Australians shared their thoughts on retro ambulation.
‘My chiropractor told me this and emphasised side walking as well,’ one said. ‘It helped rejuvenate my sacroiliac joints.’
‘I lived in Shanghai years ago and an old man walked backwards up the street every day with a 4l bottle of water in each hand,’ another shared. ‘I knew he was onto something.’
