“Human dignity insisted on the right to walk, a rhythm not extorted from the body by command or terror.”  Theodor Adorno

Walking is an all-embracing endeavour that invites almost anyone to enjoy the many pleasures that it has to offer. Unlike other pastimes and forms of exercise that require special training or equipment, walking is the great leveller.  However, it is this very accessibility that can compromise your safety.

There is no lifeguard to keep a watchful eye on walkers, no umpire to identify unfair play, and there are no screening processes to keep the bad guys out.  Walking unites the good and the bad, the vulnerable and those unscrupulous enough to take advantage of walking enthusiasts.

Don’t let the bad guys spoil your fun – here are some safety tips for walkers:

According to a recent study at the University of Tennessee, Amish have the ultimate fitness plan with real results.  Amish statistics from this study are difficult to refute.  Only four percent in the Amish community suffers from obesity, compared to a third of the American mainstream population.

The Amish fitness plan is as old as the land on which they live.  Unlike modern diets and fitness plans, which seem to offer up a new fad every other week, the Amish plan relies on the simple truth that should be the foundation of any diet that is going to be successful.  The Amish plan is a lifestyle that expends more calories in their daily activities than they consume.

The spirit of a walking trip in Dublin, Ireland is best captured in the words of two men, one a native, the other a visitor. James Joyce, the famous novelist, whose most infamous protagonist, Leopold Bloom was a seasoned Dublin pedestrian, said that, “When I die, Dublin will be written in my heart.”

Dublin is doubtlessly a memorable city, jealously guarded by its natives. Share the sentiments of J.P. Donleavy, and you will find yourself a shoe in: “When I die, I want to decompose in a barrel of porter and have it served in all the pubs in Dublin.”

Dublin’s character is nowhere more apparent in its locals.  Befriending one or two will gain you first class seats to what it really means to be a native of the city.

Nordic walking is a form of aerobic walking using modified ski poles. It is a form of walking gaining popularity in the United States because Nordic walking burns up to 40% more calories without having to increase speed or distance.

If you hit the hiking trails, you will often see people using Nordic poles on the paths.  The poles provide stability and create less pressure on the knees while walking.  Many people with damaged knees benefit from Nordic walking.