from Clarkson University
Our ability to walk changes as we get older, but the reason may surprise you. Researchers from Clarkson University in New York say their study of older Americans suggests mental fatigue may have more to do with walking ability than physical fatigue. Volunteers performed a timed walking test at normal speed. Sensors in the walking track measured speed and length of stride. At first, there was no change in walking related to mood, but later in the test, people who said they were less motivated had decreased walking speed and length of stride, even though they did not complain of lagging physical energy. Many sports attribute success to mental attitude not just physical endurance. Maybe walking is the same?