FAQs
What is race walking?
Race walking is an athletic event in which the object is simply to walk fast. The sport has
been around for about 400 years, has been in the Olympics since 1908, and is literally the
precursor of modern long-distance running.
There are two technical rules in race walking – in simple terms to be legal the race walker
must:
1. maintain contact with the ground at all times and
2. keep the knee of the supporting leg straight from the moment of foot contact with the
ground until the leg passes under the body
Can I join if I know nothing about race walking?
Absolutely! For new members or visitors interested in race walking, a brief instruction is
given in race walking technique at 9AM every Saturday (April through October) while the
regular walkers are warming up. Instructors then work with you during the regular walk.
Please refer to Programs for more details.
What kind of attire is proper during your race walk program?
If it is your first time, just come wearing something comfortable and a pair of gym shoes. If
you continue with the club, you would want the layer touching your skin including socks to
be the kind that does not retain moisture (a.k.a. moisture-wicking or Dri Fit or climate
management depending on the brand) and that means no cotton! During summer, it is
best to wear shorts so your race walk form can be observed for accuracy. For shoes,
please check out What You Want to Know.
Do I need to sign up or call before I come to the 9AM Fitness Walk?
No, you can just show up and ask for the walk leader to get instructions, but you do need to
sign the disclaimer before joining us. We start promptly at 9AM. If you are late, you may not
be able to find us. Please refer to Programs for more details.
What is race walking?
Race walking is an athletic event in which the object is simply to walk fast. The sport has
been around for about 400 years, has been in the Olympics since 1908, and is literally the
precursor of modern long-distance running.
There are two technical rules in race walking – in simple terms to be legal the race walker
must:
1. maintain contact with the ground at all times and
2. keep the knee of the supporting leg straight from the moment of foot contact with the
ground until the leg passes under the body
Can I join if I know nothing about race walking?
Absolutely! For new members or visitors interested in race walking, a brief instruction is
given in race walking technique at 9AM every Saturday (April through October) while the
regular walkers are warming up. Instructors then work with you during the regular walk.
Please refer to Programs for more details.
What kind of attire is proper during your race walk program?
If it is your first time, just come wearing something comfortable and a pair of gym shoes. If
you continue with the club, you would want the layer touching your skin including socks to
be the kind that does not retain moisture (a.k.a. moisture-wicking or Dri Fit or climate
management depending on the brand) and that means no cotton! During summer, it is
best to wear shorts so your race walk form can be observed for accuracy. For shoes,
please check out What You Want to Know.
Do I need to sign up or call before I come to the 9AM Fitness Walk?
No, you can just show up and ask for the walk leader to get instructions, but you do need to
sign the disclaimer before joining us. We start promptly at 9AM. If you are late, you may not
be able to find us. Please refer to Programs for more details.
Copyright © Chicago Walkers Club
Race Walk for Fitness and Fun
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
 | |  | |  | |  |
FAQs
