We became entirely ready to go slow.

Embarrassingly slow. Rails-holding slow. That counts.

There is no speed that's too slow to count. 1.0 mph counts. Holding the rails counts. Walking so slowly you could read a book counts. The only walk that doesn't count is the one that didn't happen because you thought it had to be faster.

Starting slow is not a compromise, it's the smart move. Your feet, knees, hips and back need time to adjust, especially if it's been a while. Going too hard on day one is the most reliable way to be sore on day two and gone by day five.

A good guide is the talk test: you should be able to speak in full sentences. A little breathier than normal is great. Gasping means slow down.

Do this today

Walk at a speed that feels almost too easy. If you can hold a conversation, you're doing it right.

Last reviewed October 30, 2026 · Sources · General information, not medical advice.