What does your walking style say about you?

Sunday, Aug. 16, 2015 | 2 a.m.

“The Worrier”

Worriers tend to walk slowly and cautiously, and typically make short, metered strides. They may drag their feet or shuffle. Not one to impose, a worrier will keep his or her eyes to the ground and arms down to the sides or crossed at the chest. These people are introverted and thoughtful, but they can seem unsure, vulnerable and timid.

SAFETY TIP: Make eye contact with drivers to be sure they see you and will stop. Don’t assume that because the car in the lane closest to you has stopped, other cars will stop, too.

“The Chiller”

Chillers are just a little too easygoing. They walk at a slow to medium pace, their body is loose and their posture relaxed. They might gesture frequently, but their gestures tend to be small and lax, and they can get caught up in an internal dialogue. Chillers tend to be more focused on others than they are on tasks, and they might seem lost while walking. They’re calm and intuitive but also can appear sloppy and easily influenced.

SAFETY TIP: Don’t be distracted while crossing the street: unplug your headphones, look both ways and avoid phone calls or texts until you’re out of the intersection.

“The Showboat”

Showboats walk with intent and confidence, swaying their arms and hips in an exaggerated manner and attracting attention from everyone they pass. While they walk with their heads high and shoulders back, they’re more focused on themselves than the goings-on around them and may be distracted by their reflection in a store window or mirror. While showboats are commanding and charismatic, they also can come off as self-absorbed and unreliable.

SAFETY TIP: Look both ways before crossing the street. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, not just yourself.

“The Politician”

Politicians are a force of energy, walking with quick, springy steps and gesturing consistently. These people are likely to walk with their chest forward, shoulders back and head up, and engage with anyone who passes them. In groups, they often take the lead, and their eyes always scan the environment around them. They’re social, friendly and likable but can seem insincere and phony.

SAFETY TIP: Brightly-colored or reflective clothing stands out best to drivers, especially at night.

“The Executive”

Executives walk very quickly with fast, focused strides, often leaning their weight forward as if charging ahead. Absorbed in their thoughts or looking down at their phone, these people often pay no mind to those around them and may bump into others while multitasking. Executives are extremely goal-oriented and can be excellent problem solvers, but they also can come off as unapproachable, preoccupied and intense.

SAFETY TIP: Don’t keep your eyes glued to the ground or to your phone; don’t text, check email or play games on your phone; and don’t listen to music so loudly you can’t hear road sounds.

Walk with confidence

Regardless of your walking “type,” carrying yourself with confidence can go a long way in improving the vibe you project to others, and even your own mood. A confident walk is a medium-paced, self-assured stride. Hold your head and chest up and your shoulders back. Be sure your center of gravity is held in your chest and shoulders, not your hips or knees, and pay attention and engage with the world around you.

Additional safety tips

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes that will not slip.

Keep a bottle of water, a drivers license or ID and a cell phone with you whenever you’re walking in case of emergencies.

Don’t run in crosswalks. Drivers are better able to see you

if you maintain a steady walking speed.

Use the sidewalk whenever possible. If there’s no sidewalk available, walk on the left side of the street, facing traffic.