Is Japanese walking the exercise you’ve been searching for?

The University of Cincinnati's Barbara Walker, PhD, was featured in a WebMD article discussing the benefits and science behind interval walking training, or "Japanese walking."

The Japanese walking method involves switching between slow and fast walking. You walk slowly for three minutes, then pick up the pace for three minutes, and repeat this cycle five times for a total of 30 minutes.  

Research has found that Japanese walking at least four days a week can improve your aerobic fitness and lower your blood pressure.

"The Japanese walking method is also more efficient. In general, the routine takes two hours per week. That’s compared to the roughly 10 hours it takes to get the recommended 10,000 steps daily," said Walker, PhD, associate professor in UC's College of Medicine and a UC Health integrative health and performance psychologist.

Walker noted the method's other benefits can include building muscle strength and endurance, boosting your mood and improving your motivation to exercise since you have to stay engaged and pay attention to time and pace.

"The variety makes it easier to stay motivated," she said.

Read the WebMD article.

Featured photo at top courtesy of iStock.