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Reverse walking has become one of the more interesting trends in the online fitness space. From physical therapists to running coaches, more experts are recommending walking backward as a simple way to improve your balance, coordination, and joint health.

Naturally, I was skeptical. As a weightlifter and marathon runner, I tend to neglect balance training. And besides taking my dog for walks, I rarely walk for exercise. But still, my balance is decent—albeit far from perfect. I also spend a good chunk of my day sitting at a desk writing, which doesn’t help. So I decided to test myself by adding reverse walking to my routine every day for a week to see if it would make a noticeable difference.

Before starting, I tested my balance with three balance tests: the timed single-leg standing hold, the timed up and go (stand up, walk 10 feet, turn, and return to a chair—all without using hands), and the Romberg test (standing with feet pressed together and eyes closed).…