Training Tips
Shoes: The 3 F's
The right shoes are essential. On average, you will take half a million steps as you prepare for the Walkabout and over 100,000 during the event! The day you make the commitment to train for the Walkabout, commit yourself to finding good footwear. Old or poorly fitting shoes are the most common cause of injury to walkers. Most serious runners and walkers recommend having two different models in which to train and trading off each training day, never wearing the same shoes twice in a row. The advantage to this is that the muscles and joints get variety in their workouts rather than falling into one pattern. Look for lightweight, all terrain shoes and have them fitted to your foot by a professional.
Do NOT wear new shoes to the Walkabout! Your shoes should be "broken-in", but not "broken down". Replace your shoes every 500 miles and remember the 3 Fs:
- Fit: Walking shoes should be one to one and a half sizes larger than your dress shoe. Your shoe must fit well but also leave room for your foot to expand while walking.
- Flex: You should be able to easily bend the forefoot of your walking shoe. A flexible shoe allows your foot to roll through each step.
- Flat: Walking shoes should be flat, with not much difference in height between the heel and ball of the foot. You will have the opportunity to bring a second pair of shoes to the Walkabout. We will transport them for you so you can change your shoes and socks at lunch. You will pick up the first pair at the end of the day.