When, Where, Why, and How You Should Walk Like a Penguin

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When it’s cold and snowy and the sidewalks are icy, it’s better to stay home if you can. But if you’ve got to go outside, take a lesson or two from penguins. They’re specialists in getting around without falling on the ice. Here’s the difference between human and penguin strides:

  • Humans take long strides and keep their weight evenly distributed on both feet.

  • Penguins take tiny steps and keep their weight on one leg at a time.

  • Penguins have short legs and a low center of gravity.

So, to move more like a penguin, take small steps and keep all your weight on your forward foot. Keeping all your weight on one foot makes it less likely that your feet will spread apart and slip out from under you.

More tips to reduce the risk of falling

  • Increase your stability by keeping your core tight (that is, the mid-section of your body).

  • Keep your knees slightly bent to help keep your center of gravity low - like a penguin’s.

  • Don’t wear boots with smooth bottoms; they should have lugged soles that provide good traction.

  • Improve your balance by holding your arms out at your sides.

  • Consider changing your route to completely avoid walking on ice.

Learn from the penguin to steer clear of common winter injuries such as sprained ankles, fractured bones, and deep bruises, injuries that we see all winter long here at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center in Monmouth County, New Jersey. If you do take a spill or have foot pain for any other reason, get expert care from board-certified podiatrists Dr.Samantha Boyd, Dr. HalOrnstein, Dr. Dan Phan, and Dr. Joseph Saka at our offices in Howell and Jackson. Call (732) 905-1110 or make an appointment online.