“8-shaped walking,” also known as “infinity walking” or “Figure-8 walking,” involves walking in the shape of the number 8. This form of walking offers several benefits, both physical and mental. Here are some of the advantages:
Cardiovascular exercise: Walking in an 8-shaped pattern can elevate your heart rate and provide a cardiovascular workout. It helps improve blood circulation and strengthens your heart and lungs.
Balance and coordination: The continuous figure-8 motion requires you to shift your weight and balance your body, which can improve your overall balance and coordination over time.
Joint mobility: The varied movement patterns involved in 8-shaped walking can promote joint mobility and flexibility, particularly in the hips, knees, and ankles.
Core and abdominal workout: This type of walking engages your core muscles as you twist and turn while walking the figure-8 pattern. It can help tone and strengthen your abdominal muscles.
Stress relief: Walking, in general, is known to reduce stress and anxiety. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of 8-shaped walking can have a calming effect on the mind and promote mental relaxation.
Improved focus and concentration: The intentional movement required for figure-8 walking can help improve focus and concentration as you need to pay attention to your steps and maintain the pattern.
Low impact exercise: 8-shaped walking is generally gentle on the joints, making it suitable for people of various fitness levels and ages. It can be a low-impact alternative to other forms of exercise like running.
Outdoor enjoyment: This walking pattern can be practiced outdoors, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air while getting exercise.
Social activity: Walking with friends or in a group can turn 8-shaped walking into a social activity, making it more enjoyable and motivating.
Remember that while 8-shaped walking has its benefits, it is essential to combine it with a balanced diet and other forms of exercise for overall health and fitness. If you have any health concerns or medical conditions, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine.
Scientific explanation of 8 shaped walking
The “8-shaped walking,” has gained popularity in various fitness programs and wellness routines due to its potential benefits for improving balance, coordination, and cognitive function.
Here’s a scientific explanation of the potential benefits and mechanisms behind 8-shaped walking:
Cross-lateral Movement: During 8-shaped walking, the individual crosses the midline of their body multiple times, engaging both sides of the brain and promoting communication between the brain’s hemispheres. This is referred to as cross-lateral movement. The crossing of the midline helps improve the integration of neural pathways, which can lead to enhanced coordination and cognitive function.
Brain Hemisphere Activation: The human brain consists of two hemispheres – the left and the right. Each hemisphere is responsible for controlling different functions in the body. For example, the left hemisphere is associated with logical thinking and language skills, while the right hemisphere is involved in creativity and spatial awareness. 8-shaped walking can activate and stimulate both hemispheres simultaneously, leading to a more balanced and integrated brain function.
Vestibular Stimulation: The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in balance and spatial orientation. When walking in a Figure-8 pattern, the body undergoes various changes in direction and motion, which provides additional vestibular stimulation. This helps improve balance and proprioception (awareness of body position in space), as the brain processes the incoming signals from the vestibular system.
Motor Skills and Coordination: 8-shaped walking requires controlled and precise movements, which can challenge and improve motor skills and coordination. By practicing these movements regularly, individuals can enhance their ability to perform complex motor tasks in daily life.
Mindfulness and Focus: Walking in the Figure-8 pattern requires concentration and mindfulness, as individuals need to pay attention to their movements and the shape they are tracing. Engaging in such mindful walking can help reduce stress and increase focus, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being.
Exercise Benefits: Walking itself is a beneficial form of exercise that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and burns calories. 8-shaped walking adds an extra dimension of challenge to a regular walking routine, potentially enhancing its overall fitness benefits.
Overall, 8-shaped walking combines physical movement, cognitive engagement, and mindfulness, making it a holistic exercise that can offer various health benefits. However, it’s essential to remember that individual experiences may vary, and people with specific medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before engaging in any new exercise routine.
Dr Neeraj Kaushik Founder Kaushik Acupuncture & Complementary Medicine