Walk Backwards

Step out - backwards! The Chinese have a saying that 100 steps
backwards are worth 1000 steps forward - and they might be onto
something! It may look bizarre to onlookers, but Michael delves
into the research and finds some surprising benefits. It’s been
used for decades in rehabilitative physical therapy, and recent
research reveals that it could even boost memory - by giving your
brain a workout! Michael also speaks to biomechanics expert and
champion of backwards walking, Professor Janet Dufek from the
University of Nevada, Las Vegas, whose research suggests that
walking backwards could help with lower back pain. They discuss
why walking backwards is so beneficial for our muscles and how to
do it safely. Volunteer Nina takes her daughter with her for a
backward stroll - and gets a laugh out of it!


New episodes will be released on Wednesdays, but if you’re in the
UK, listen to new episodes, a week early, first on BBC Sounds:
bbc.in/3zqa6BB


Producer: Nija Dalal-Small Science Producer: Catherine Wyler
Assistant Producer: Gulnar Mimaroglu Trainee Assistant Producer:
Toni Arenyeka Executive Producer: Zoe Heron A BBC Studios
production for BBC Sounds / BBC Radio 4.