Japanese walking emerges as a new fitness trend

Japanese walking is emerging as a popular alternative to traditional exercise classes.

Japanese walking captures interest as a new fitness trend

Japanese walking, which combines bursts of slow and fast walking, is quickly gaining traction among fitness enthusiasts. Known as the '3-3 walking workout', this routine consists of walking at an intense pace for three minutes followed by three minutes of slower walking, repeated five times for a total of 30 minutes. It was created by researchers at Shinshu University in Japan to help older adults gain health benefits similar to those of high-intensity exercise. Studies show that participants experienced significant health improvements, including weight loss and better blood pressure control. However, some fitness experts question whether this method is superior to regular moderate activity.

While Japanese walking is attracting attention for its health benefits, including potential improvements in cardiovascular fitness, the debate among fitness experts continues. Sean Pymer raises a crucial point: the importance of consistent physical activity may outweigh the specific type of exercise. This trend highlights an essential shift in how we perceive fitness, emphasizing not just the activity itself but the frequency and intensity of our efforts. As new methods like this emerge, it remains vital for individuals to find what works best for their lifestyles and health goals.

Highlights

Japanese walking may reshape our approach to fitness, but habitual activity remains the priority.