{"id":481212,"date":"2026-06-03T16:24:15","date_gmt":"2026-06-03T16:24:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/481212\/"},"modified":"2026-06-03T16:24:15","modified_gmt":"2026-06-03T16:24:15","slug":"at-80-goldie-hawn-swears-by-this-simple-2-minute-exercise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/481212\/","title":{"rendered":"At 80, Goldie Hawn swears by this simple 2 minute exercise"},"content":{"rendered":"

Goldie Hawn<\/a> once said that: \u2018The only thing that will make you happy is being happy with who you are,\u2019 so it would probably be a mistake to try and be more like her. Still, it is tempting. At 80, she still has the chaotic, boundless energy of a spring lamb. How does she do it?<\/p>\n

Well, in a social media post<\/a>, she claimed that walking is \u2018the most important thing you can do\u2019. So far, so familiar. A new study appears almost every week now, extolling the mental and physical benefits of a daily dog walk<\/a>. <\/p>\n

But how about walking backwards? It uses \u2018a whole different part of your brain,\u2019 says Goldie, who\u2019s a fan. Really? Well, yes, actually, suggests physiotherapist Sam Bhide<\/a>: \u2018In clinical practice, we often use walking backwards to train the brain for vestibular issues like vertigo.\u2019<\/p>\n

Walking backwards is also excellent for challenging balance and coordination, she explains: \u2018It specifically targets the gluteus maximus \u2013 the body\u2019s powerhouse \u2013 which is essential for stability. By walking backwards, we train these muscles to activate primarily rather than just assisting as they do when walking forward. This improves proprioception, which is the body\u2019s ability to sense its orientation in space.\u2019<\/p>\n

This proprioception is important at all ages, but it becomes especially vital in later life. \u2018Proprioception and balance naturally decline with age or injury, increasing the risk of falls,\u2019 says Sam<\/a>. \u2018Stiffness and muscle weakness can further compound these issues. Walking backwards is a simple yet effective functional exercise to maintain stability and retrain these vital sensory systems.\u2019<\/p>\n

So how often should you be doing it? Sam suggests short burst of 2-3 minutes, 3-4 times a week. And, err\u2026 how do we stop ourselves from tripping over while doing this exercise designed to prevent falls? \u2018To stay safe, I recommend practicing alongside a wall, bannister or kitchen counter for support,\u2019 says Sam. \u2018Always wear suitable footwear and ensure your path is clear of any obstacles.\u2019<\/p>\n