What is active walking?
And why is it interesting for you?
Discovering natural gems in the forest, taking a stroll with your dog, making a city trip... In fact, it all falls under active walking. But more and more peaple are consciously choosing a sporty hike. And that's only fun without sore feet.
Why is walking so important for all of us?
The health benefits of active walking
Active walking has many more benefits than you mightt hink. Many docktors even consider it the ideal way tos tay fit, both physically and mentally.
- You don't just use your leg muscles, you also engage your core and even the small muscles in your toes.
- Your fitness improves, your bones and muscles get stronger, and your balance and coordination make great strides.
- It lowers your stress levels and boosts your mood.
- It strengthens your immune system.
- It promotes a good night's sleep.
Anyone can do it!
Anyone who wants to stay fit, can choose active walking. It puts almost no strain on your joints, unlike many other sports. Are you an experienced active walker, or just thinking of starting? Runners' lab has some tips for you.
- Build up gradually. Let your body get used to the movements and slowly increase your speed and distance.
- Invest in the right gear. Wear comfortable clothing and active walking shoes. The latter is especially important.
- Listen to your body. Eat and drink enough during your walks, and take breaks when needed.
- Vary your routes. Are you getting bored during your daily walks? Try exploring a different environment. It doesn't have to be far - Flanders is full of beautiful nature.
- Find a walking partner. Walking with someone else (or a group) is always more fun than going solo.
The importance of the right shoes
What might be the perfect walking shoe for one, isn't necessarily the right one for you. Everyone is different: other feet, walking styles, preferences... That's why specific active walking shoes are needed to keep walking without injuries.
“As long as you're not venturing into high mountains, you're actually better off with active walking shoes. Because these shoes are running-oriented, they provide more cushioning for your back and knees", says Eddy D'hondt, purchasing manager at Runners' lab.
The active walking shoes you need, are derived from running shoes. They offer more comfort and feel much lighter on your feet. And not unimportant, they also look more stylish.
“At Runnesr' lab, we have an extensive range of active walking shoes, including water-repellent (GTX) options. We also carry mid shoes - shoes above the ankle. They protect more against puddles and tall grass, while providing more support and stability. These mid shoes might be interesting when walking with a heavy backpack. For some, it can also be a psychological boost."
Besides your personal preferences and walking style, the type of terrain matters, too. If you mainly walk on asphalt, you need a different outsole than if you mostly explore nature and forests. Not bothered by rain? Then a water-repellent shoe might be interesting. Want extra ankle support? You can opt for the mid-height shoes.
Yes, it may feel difficult to find the right active walking shoes. Good news: the advisors of Runners' lab know exactly what you need.
​
Find your active walking shoes at Runners' lab
Runners' lab is firmly convinced that the right walking shoes make all the difference. The cushioning and comfort help you stay injury-free and walk with ease.
There's no one-size-fits-all theory when it comes to the 'best' walking shoes. What matters most, is finding out what works for you. However, the free analysis at Runners' lab can give you a helpful step in the right direction toward the perfect walking shoes.
What is active walking?
And why is it interesting for you?
Discovering natural gems in the forest, taking a stroll with your dog, making a city trip... In fact, it all falls under active walking. But more and more peaple are consciously choosing a sporty hike. And that's only fun without sore feet.
Why is walking so important for all of us?
The health benefits of active walking
Active walking has many more benefits than you mightt hink. Many docktors even consider it the ideal way tos tay fit, both physically and mentally.
- You don't just use your leg muscles, you also engage your core and even the small muscles in your toes.
- Your fitness improves, your bones and muscles get stronger, and your balance and coordination make great strides.
- It lowers your stress levels and boosts your mood.
- It strengthens your immune system.
- It promotes a good night's sleep.
Anyone can do it!
Anyone who wants to stay fit, can choose active walking. It puts almost no strain on your joints, unlike many other sports. Are you an experienced active walker, or just thinking of starting? Runners' lab has some tips for you.
- Build up gradually. Let your body get used to the movements and slowly increase your speed and distance.
- Invest in the right gear. Wear comfortable clothing and active walking shoes. The latter is especially important.
- Listen to your body. Eat and drink enough during your walks, and take breaks when needed.
- Vary your routes. Are you getting bored during your daily walks? Try exploring a different environment. It doesn't have to be far - Flanders is full of beautiful nature.
- Find a walking partner. Walking with someone else (or a group) is always more fun than going solo.
The importance of the right shoes
What might be the perfect walking shoe for one, isn't necessarily the right one for you. Everyone is different: other feet, walking styles, preferences... That's why specific active walking shoes are needed to keep walking without injuries.
“As long as you're not venturing into high mountains, you're actually better off with active walking shoes. Because these shoes are running-oriented, they provide more cushioning for your back and knees", says Eddy D'hondt, purchasing manager at Runners' lab.
The active walking shoes you need, are derived from running shoes. They offer more comfort and feel much lighter on your feet. And not unimportant, they also look more stylish.
“At Runnesr' lab, we have an extensive range of active walking shoes, including water-repellent (GTX) options. We also carry mid shoes - shoes above the ankle. They protect more against puddles and tall grass, while providing more support and stability. These mid shoes might be interesting when walking with a heavy backpack. For some, it can also be a psychological boost."
Besides your personal preferences and walking style, the type of terrain matters, too. If you mainly walk on asphalt, you need a different outsole than if you mostly explore nature and forests. Not bothered by rain? Then a water-repellent shoe might be interesting. Want extra ankle support? You can opt for the mid-height shoes.
Yes, it may feel difficult to find the right active walking shoes. Good news: the advisors of Runners' lab know exactly what you need.
​
Find your active walking shoes at Runners' lab
Runners' lab is firmly convinced that the right walking shoes make all the difference. The cushioning and comfort help you stay injury-free and walk with ease.
There's no one-size-fits-all theory when it comes to the 'best' walking shoes. What matters most, is finding out what works for you. However, the free analysis at Runners' lab can give you a helpful step in the right direction toward the perfect walking shoes.