• You lean forward more than 5 degrees
• You lean back.
• You have a sway back with or without a forward lean.

Somewhere you read to lean forward when walking. Or, you may be leaning back on your hips. Leaning forward or backwards or holding your back swayed can result in back pain and does not contribute to speed.

The Cure:

Stand up straight but with relaxed shoulders, chin up and parallel to the ground. Think about walking tall. Think "suck in your gut, tuck in your butt." Your back has a natural curve; do not force it into an unnatural sway with your behind sticking out and your stomach pushing forward.

• You walk at night wearing dark colored clothing with no reflective stripes or a safety vest.
• You wear too much or too little clothing. You don't wear a hat.

The Cure

To prevent becoming a car hood ornament, wear a mesh reflective safety vest bought at a local biking or running shop or put reflective strips on your night-time walking outfit. Many running shoes have reflective elements, but studies show it is best to have several reflective elements to be seen from all directions. For walking comfort, dress in layers. The inner layer should be of a fabric like polypropylene that will wick sweat away from your body to evaporate - not cotton, which holds it in next to the skin. The next layer should be insulating - a shirt or sweater that can be easily removed if you warm up. The outer layer should be a jacket that is windproof, and waterproof or water-resistant in wet climates. Hats are essential equipment. They insulate you so you warm up faster. They shield the top of your head from the sun - an area where it is hard to apply sunscreen. Hats with visors also shield your face from sun exposure.