You're standing on a crowded bus, surrounded by others like yourself. Then the bus stops suddenly. If you don't have a good hand hold, you go flying forward into other passengers and start a domino effect! With a little forethought, it's easy to keep your footing during challenging times.
1Place your feet about a foot apart in the shape of a "T" after boarding the bus. One foot should be aligned with the direction of travel and the other should be placed behind it perpendicular to the direction of travel.Ad
2When the bus stops, bend your rear leg and keep the front one straight to lean towards the back of the bus. As the bus comes to a stop, slowly straighten your legs to stand upright.
3When the bus starts again, bend your front leg to lean forward.
4Use the foot placed perpendicular to the direction of travel for lateral stability (i.e. during turns). Lean into the turns.Ad
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- This technique works best for shuttle buses that make frequent, predictable stops.
- Bending your knees slightly makes you more flexible and able to absorb motion. Do not lock your knees in place.
- Relax. Jerky movements can toss you off balance. Think of being a surfer or a skateboarder.
- Often the closer you are to the front of the bus, the smoother the ride is likely to be. Stand near the front of the bus for increased stability.
- These tips also work well for subways and light rail.
- Another approach is to stand diagonally in the bus. This gives stability for lateral as well as forward-backward motion!
- It is somewhat like trying to stay on your feet on a snowboard or a skateboard.
- If you are too far away from a handrail or pole, don't forget to look up. If you are 5'7" or taller, you should be able to brace yourself by simply putting your hand up and pushing against the ceiling of the bus.
- Keep an eye out for other passengers who may not be able to keep their footing.
- This is not meant to be used as a substitute for holding onto the hand rails. The hand rails are there for your safety, use them if possible.
- Don't stand when you don't have to, take a seat whenever possible to reduce accidents.