Stepping to the Penguin Shuffle
- Winter 2022
By living on the ice, penguins have adapted to walking in slippery, snowy conditions. As humans in South Dakota, each winter when temperatures dip, we need to readapt our own outdoor walking style. Walking like a penguin can prevent injury – and even death – by falling on the ice. To do the Penguin Shuffle:
- Point your feet out slightly.
- Bend your knees slightly and walk flat-footed.
- Extend your arms to your sides to maintain balance.
- Take small steps and shuffle for stability.
Other tips for ice safety include:
- Focus on your footing.
- Don’t use your cell phone when walking.
- Use handrails when available.
- Be aware of changes in walking surfaces.
- Free up your hands.
- Use official paths and walkways.
- Step down from curbs, not out.
- Step down out of a vehicle.
- Wear appropriate footwear.
With a few simple steps, you can master the Penguin Shuffle and safely walk on snow and ice this winter.