The way you walk can say a lot about your health…and your personality. In fact, it is one of the major characteristics upon which your demeanour is judged by onlookers. However, your gait likely has a lot more to do with what is happening in your body than it does in your personality.

Dragging your Feet

When someone excessively drags their feet, it is typically considered a sign of laziness or disinterest. In fact, it is likely the sign of low energy and weakness. Both physical and mental health factors can contribute to this type of gait. Depression causing lethargy, low morale or physical illness causing exhaustion could be factors at play here.

Fast Walker

The ‘driven’ walker, typically moves at a quick pace with a clear path in mind. Studies have shown that those with a fast gait are likely in great physical shape. Fast walkers are often deemed unapproachable and withdrawn, but are likely simply multi-tasking. They are known to be problem solving or chatting on the phone while getting from point A to point B.

Watching where you step

The cautious walker, typically takes things a bit slower, carefully watching where each step lands. Weight is typically stronger in the heels and light on the toes. Multi-tasking while walking is off limits and arms are straight and stiff along the torso. The impression this type of gait gives is an introverted and timid personality. The reality is that the person is likely compensating for an injury. It may be a current injury or the lasting effects of an older problem that left permanent alterations.

High Stepper

If you have a high arch in your step, you may have a foot drop. This means that you place your heel high, but tend to drag your toes. From a personality standpoint, this can be interpreted as being high maintenance or fancy like you’re always wearing high heels, but is likely the result of an injury or nerve damage. It may also be the result of conditions such as muscular dystrophy or MS.

Veering

If you’re consistently swaying in one direction or the other, it could be the result of a distracted brain. Veering in one direction can be linked to high levels of stress. It is often thought to be the gait of a clumsy or disorganized individual, but is likely one side of the brain is working harder to try to sort through distressing or distracting thoughts.

If you recognize any of these gaits as your own and would like to explore some treatment plans to work on them, please reach out!