How Different Luggage Types Influence Your Gait and Walking Comfort
- Julian Simpson
- Dec 22, 2025
- 2 min read
Lets look at the different effects of luggage on people's gait.
Researchers in 2025 looked at 4 different conditions
four conditions were: no luggage, using a backpack, a shoulder bag, and a crossbody bag.
Gait, a fundamental aspect of human activity, serves a crucial function in the activities of daily living (ADL). It plays a pivotal role in maintaining both physical and mental health
The weight, design, and carrying method of luggage can lead to abnormal postures, affecting the musculoskeletal system
We have discussed school bags in other posts, One study has demonstrated a reduction in walking speed and stride length, along with an increase in the double support phase, when schoolchildren carry schoolbags. We now know that school bags shouldnt be more than 10% of the childs body weight
Another study found an increased dorsiflexion angle in the foot on the loaded side during contact with the ground when carrying asymmetrical luggage
The study found that when people use a backpack , a shoulder bag or cross body , there was a slower walking speed
When we carry luggage on one side, the pelvis tilts and turns and affects the lower limmb joint motion , leading to a reduction in stride length
Next time you are at the airport and rushing, make sure to put all your luggge in a trolly , and protect your body by not carrying the bag on one side to limit hip pain.
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