Participants of Retro Walk at Taman Persekutuan Bukit Kiara in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.
THE second Retro Walk, or walking backwards, has been held to promote healthy living and encourage urban folk to stay active.
More than 300 people joined the exercise at Taman Persekutuan Bukit Kiara, the popular green space in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.
The event was organised by Pharmaceutical Association of Malaysia (Phama).
Also involved were Arthritis Foundation Malaysia, Malaysian Association for the Blind, and Persatuan Pulmonari Hypertensi Malaysia.
Their participation enabled walkers and park visitors to learn more about their health and join the organisations’ respective support groups.
Walking backwards is said to burn more calories and activate different muscles that are less utilised.
Retro walkers also experience heightened awareness of their surroundings and are more alert to hazards that they cannot see.
“Physical activity is important for good health and we are happy to support this event that brings people out to enjoy the outdoors,” said Novo Nordisk Malaysia vice-president and general manager Richard Abela.
Retro Walk, the brainchild of Phama executive director Chan Li Jin, also symbolises the innovative spirit of scientists and researchers in the biopharmaceutical sphere.
Chan said, “Although it is commonly practised in other parts of the world, walking backwards as a form of exercise is novel in Malaysia.
“Hence, we arranged for our walkers to move in pairs, where they take turns to lead and walk backwards.
“It is also a lesson in trust, where you know your partner will take care of you.”
