Walking Tips
- If you haven't walked to work before, try your route on the weekend. You won't have to hurry and will become familiar with your route. Look for high-traffic intersections or no-sidewalk areas. Check for good walking paths and crosswalks. If there is no sidewalk on a section of your walk route, always walk on the left, against the traffic.
- Allow extra time for your first few days of your walk commute. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. If you require dress shoes on the job, leave a pair at work. Be prepared for changes in the weather during the day, have an umbrella and sweater or jacket at work.
- Whenever possible, limit what you take home from the office, so you are carrying a minimal weight on your walk commute.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If wearing headphones, look for cars turning across your path and bikes overtaking you.
- If you have a cell phone, bring it with on your walk to work, so if an emergency occurs you will have immediate access to assistance
- Carry Water. It is important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot weather.
- Take extra care at night and at dusk. When walking at night, wear reflective outdoor clothing or shoes, or use lights to make yourself more visible. Avoid wearing dark clothing.
- Vary your route. Explore different neighborhoods, alternate routes on different days of the week.
- Purchase a pedometer to track your steps and motivate you to walk to work.
