Spring is here—and what better way to enjoy God’s beautiful creation, spend time with friends, relax, meditate, exercise, rejuvenate, explore some near or not-so-near park or forest … than to take a walk!

To enjoy your walk and to make it of maximum benefit to your body and mind, here are mistakes to avoid:

Overstriding: When trying to walk faster, a natural inclination is to lengthen your stride in front, reaching out further with your forward foot. This leads to a clumsy, ungainly gait, striking hard with the feet. The power of your walk actually comes from pushing with the back foot and leg. If you’re trying to walk fast, concentrate on taking shorter, quicker steps.

Wrong shoes: Heavy or stiff shoes or shoes that are too small can set you up for muscle pulls and knee problems.

Flat-footed: Instead of landing flat-footed with each step, roll through your step with your forward foot.

No arms: Don’t keep your arms still at your sides while walking. Your arms should counter-balance your leg motion. Add power and speed by bending your arms 90 degrees and swinging them naturally opposite the leg motion.

Chicken winging: Swinging your arms from side to side won’t work so well, besides endangering passersby. Swing your arms back and forward, keeping your elbows close to your body.

Head down: Don’t always look down! Look up! Your chin should be parallel with the ground. Good posture allows you to breathe well. You’ll be able to see where you are going and enjoy the view.

Leaning and swaying: Don’t lean forward or back—walk tall!

Walking right will help your health, fitness and attitude. Walking wrong can bring wasted effort and even injury (not to mention attracting a few raised eyebrows). So when you’re walking, walk the right walk!