Walk: Your Life Depends On It

by Courtney Conley, Milica McDowell

'Nothing is better for your health than regular walking. Read this informative book' Daniel Lieberman, author of Exercised

A myth-busting guide to one of the key pillars of health and longevity – walking – by the renowned foot health experts

Walking isn’t just a leisurely activity or a form of personal transportation. Its far-reaching benefits – not just for physical health, but for mental clarity and emotional well-being, creativity and social connection – make it a vital component of human existence, one that is as essential as breathing and sleeping.

In this book, world-renowned foot and gait specialist, Courtney Conley, and physiotherapist, Milica McDowell, transform our understanding of the importance of one of the simplest and most accessible forms of movement. Drawing on cutting-edge research, evolutionary biology and real-life stories from their practice, they show that walking is one of our most powerful and under-prescribed revealing why walking speed can predict overall health; how the risk of falls, which has a direct impact on longevity, can be measured by your foot health; and how even the shortest of walks can have profound healing effects.

Filled with practical advice, from simple tips to help with lower back pain, to customizable programs to enhance mobility and fitness, this book is an essential guide to transforming your physical – and mental – health, from the ground up.

Genres: Walking, Health

321 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2026

Reviews

[Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting book. I’m glad to know that in wearing barefoot shoes for a decade I’ve been looking after my feet 😆 at least I’m doing one thing right for my health! A peri-meno foray into plantar fasciitis lead me back a step to Altra functional shoes, but I now switch between the two. I do need to increase the amount of walking I do though, so the plans are helpful. Worth a read for anyone dealing with foot/ankle/calf issues

[Doreva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned about Dr. Courtney Conley and Gait Happens from her interviews with Dr. Peter Attia. This book explained foot mechanics in an easily understandable and approachable way. It helped me understand some mistakes I made in the past that may have contributed to my foot issues, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. It provides a detailed walking plan that eases people in to making healthy changes with walking, foot exercises, foot care and health care for lasting health benefits. I got this book from the library and then purchased a copy. Highly recommended!

[John Joseph Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant read/listen and a reminder how we don't always know what we think we know. Movement snacks...a game changer.
Recommended for everyone who thinks they know all about walking...you don't.