Does Walking Gait Affect Fall Risk?
As we age, our risk of falling naturally increases — and that can be a scary thought for many older adults. But here’s some good news: research shows that how we walk plays a major role in that risk. In other words, improving your walking gait can actually help prevent falls.
Regular walking is one of the best things we can do for our overall health. The general recommendation is at least 30 minutes of brisk walking, five times a week. But when it comes to balance and stability, quality matters just as much as quantity.
When we talk about walking gait, we’re referring to several key factors — stride length, stride width, double stance time (the time both feet are on the ground), walking speed, and cadence (steps per minute). Studies have found that people with a more efficient gait — meaning longer steps, narrower stride width, shorter double stance time, faster pace, and higher cadence — tend to have a lower risk of falling.
So, how can you start improving your gait?
Pick one element to focus on each walk. For example, you might start by working on taking slightly longer strides. Once that feels comfortable, you can focus on picking up your pace. Over time, these small, intentional adjustments can make a big difference in your balance, strength, and confidence while walking.
As always, if you have any questions or would like some personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to help.
– The KE Team