Still, the method is not a full replacement for everything a gym offers. Walking, even at interval intensity, mainly trains the cardiovascular system and the lower-body muscles used for that motion. It does less for upper-body strength, bone density that comes from loading the skeleton with weights, or the kind of muscle growth many people seek.<\/p>\n
Experts who have looked at the trend note that resistance training remains important, especially as we age. Japanese walking can cover a large part of the recommended weekly aerobic activity, about two hours if done four times, but it leaves gaps in strength and mobility work.<\/p>\n
The smart approach is to treat it as a strong foundation or a time-saving cardio option, then add simple body-weight exercises or light weights a couple of days a week if full fitness is the goal.
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