Walking

Walking (also known as ambulation) is one of the main gaits of terrestrial locomotion among legged animals. Walking is typically slower than running and other gaits. Walking is defined as an "inverted pendulum" gait in which the body vaults over the stiff limb or limbs with each step. This applies regardless of the usable number of limbs—even arthropods, with six, eight, or more limbs, walk. In humans, limited research indicates that walking may be associated with reduced risk of diseases and premature death.

The word "walking" is also synonymous with hiking in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland (and to a lesser extent in Canada). A short urban walk, in most English-speaking countries is called a "walk".

Walking is a multi-faceted human activity. Humans walk to school and to work, or may have a job that entails walking; it is a form of recreation and a sport; it is a low-impact type of exercise, with possible health benefits; it is walking a dog and beachcombing; it can be part of a spiritual practice.