Walking columns with nine different aspect ratios from 1:9 to 1:1 were tested. The walking columns were designed using ACI 318-19 column design method or later mentioned as pier method and strut-and-tie method for each aspect ratio. Hence, eighteen models were tested in total. The compressive strength of concrete material was 8000 psi and the reinforcement yield strength was 60,000 psi for all aspect ratios. The width of all walking columns were 12 in. in compliance with the dimension of the upper and lower column which was 12 in. x 12 in. At the same time, finite element models were built in ATENA nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) software for all aspect ratios and both design methods. All models were subject to downward deflection incrementally applied on the upper column until its failure. The main objective was to know which design method was the most appropriate for designing reinforced concrete walking column element. The finite element method results show that strut-and-tie method can be conservatively used for design of all aspect ratios. However, for slender walking columns, strut-and-tie design is too conservative and therefore wastes reinforcement materials. The test results indicate that for aspect ratio of 1:9 to 1:4, the axial strength of walking column designed using pier method is lower than the axial strength obtained from FEA. Therefore, pier method can be used as the design method so that more reinforcement materials can be saved. However, for aspect ratio of 1:3 to 1:1 the pier method analysis results in increasing trend while the FEA shows decreasing trend in axial strength. For these slender walking columns, strut-and-tie method can more accurately capture the axial behavior. It confirms ACI 318-19 code Table R18 which categorizes the aspect ratio of 1:1 to be wall and 1:2 to 1:3 to be wall pier and the rest to be pier.