As winter storms roll through, folks who live in icy areas have to re-acquaint themselves with how to navigate a slick icy surface. For some, it comes naturally. For others, that tailbone is going to take a beating. When in doubt, just remember: Walk like the penguins. The following is a transcription of the video:
Don’t let winter slip you up!
The secret to avoiding icy tumbles: Impersonate a penguin!
When we walk, we keep our center of gravity between our legs, so each leg supports half our weight. Because the leg is at an angle, we’re more vulnerable to losing our balance.
But penguins don't walk this way. Their legs are too short, so they must waddle, keeping all their weight on one leg at a time. When on the ice, do as the penguins do.
Maintain your center of gravity over one leg at a time and take tiny steps, even if it looks funny. Keep your hands out of your pockets and if you do fall, try landing on your thigh, hip or shoulder. Falling onto your hands could injure your wrists.
Follow these steps, and you could be at home in the Antarctic.
You may need a tuxedo to fit in.
This video was originally published in February 2017.