Marc Varsano, an ex national race walker, helps us debunk the myths and clarify the truths behind this often-ignored sport. According to Varsano, the training required to be a successful race walker is just as vigorous as that of a competitive runner. During the racing season, a race walker will spend two days a week focusing on speed work, which may mean walking a quarter of a mile 15 times, resting and then following it up by walking a full mile six times. He or she will also dedicate one day a week to a long, hard workout (Sunday is Varsano's day of choice) and walk approximately six miles every other day (taking at least one day off to rest) to maintain aerobic fitness. Varsano notes that as with any vigorous activity, it is possible to get hurt while race walking, so training is essential.

Varsano is also quick to extol the virtues of race walking, which he believes is actually more challenging than running. "It engages the entire body; all the muscles in the arms and shoulders are activated as you swing back and forth and propel yourself forward," he says, "whereas a runner really only moves from the belly button down." This also makes for a more complete workout because both muscular and cardiovascular fitness are being challenged. Varsano believes that race walking is ultimately a healthier athletic activity than running because it exposes the body to less impact. According to Varsano, "race walkers are moving parallel to the ground, almost as if they're floating, while runners are slamming all of their weight into their knees and ankles with every step they take."

Race walking is a sport in which anyone at any level can participate. If you're a brand new walker, Varsano suggests starting on your own slowly by walking two to three blocks initially and gradually increasing. When you're ready to begin race walking, you should contact your local walking organization (almost all walking clubs have Web sites) and if you're having trouble locating your local race walkers, contact the closest running club or other athletic organization; they should be able to point you in the right direction. Varsano also suggests working with another walker for some time before your first race to ensure that you've learned the correct race walking form: There are strict rules to which you must adhere (e.g., one foot must always be on the ground). As with all athletic activities, contact your doctor before you begin.

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