Research now shows that while more steps are helpful, a lower amount leads to health benefits tooThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
This new routine is backed by science(Image: Simple)
We’re all familiar with the 10,000-step daily rule and its health benefits, such as maintaining or losing weight and burning fat. However, a new walking trend is going viral that’s even more beneficial – and it’s incredibly straightforward.
The 10,000-step rule, it turns out, isn’t scientifically backed but was a marketing ploy by a 1960s pedometer company. Current research indicates that while increasing step count is beneficial, fewer steps can also lead to health improvements.
This has been endorsed by TikTok fitness creator Eugene Teo, who asserts that the Japanese walking routine offers tenfold the benefits of achieving 10,000 steps a day in just half an hour. Moreover, this routine is simple and low-impact.
But don’t dismiss this as mere conjecture; this routine is scientifically supported. Here’s how it works; the Japanese walking routine is interval training, consisting of a 30-minute high-intensity, low-impact stroll, divided into sections.
It includes three minutes of brisk walking (around 70% of your peak aerobic capacity), followed by three minutes of slow walking (about 40% of your peak aerobic capacity). This alternating pace is repeated for five sets, totalling 30 minutes, four times a week, reports the Mirror.
The Simple App provides a personalised walking plan

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For new users, the Simple app is currently on offer at a 60% discount
Even at the faster interval speed, those following the Japanese walking routine should still be able to converse whilst walking. Since walking is a gentle, moderate-intensity exercise, it reduces strain on joints, such as the hips, knees and ankles. This makes it a more secure option than high-impact activities like running, and it’s an excellent choice for those susceptible to injuries or joint pain.
To help organise these walks, people can utilise the Simple app, which can deliver a tailored walking plan based on their ideal step count. For new users, the app is presently available at a 60% discount when you use the code REACH60 at checkout.
For those who might be doubtful about the outcomes, people can examine their remarkable user transformations. For instance, Karen Heffernan, who once weighed 26-and-a-half stone (168.28kg), gained control of her weight after a ‘health scare’ and turned to the Simple app, which led her through a series of small, gradual changes.
Karen Heffernan has shared her incredible weight loss journey(Image: Simple)
Over approximately 18 months, this method helped her lose an incredible 14-and-a-half stone (92.08kg), bringing her to less than half of her original body weight. Karen said: “I can’t believe it’s actually been so simple. I’ve not felt deprived along the way, my motto just now is ‘delay don’t deny.’ You can have the treats, you have the yin and the yang, you build things up.”
She added: “This isn’t through surgery, it’s not through medication or any of that, some vitamins along the way, yes, but good food, good exercise, good sleep and motivation to keep you going along the way.”
To start using the Simple app, users fill out a quick online form about their dietary and fitness objectives. The app then uses this data to develop a completely tailored programme that fits their particular requirements and timetable.
With Simple’s AI Coach, each user’s plan is adapted to them(Image: Simple Life)
Through Simple’s AI Coach, every user’s plan is customised to them and they receive ongoing guidance. Furthermore, the Simple approach doesn’t involve calorie counting, eliminating vital food groups, or measuring every morsel – rather, it emphasises safety and long-term success, with support throughout the journey.
As an alternative, though, customers might consider the MyFitnessPal app. This comprehensive food tracker, calorie counter, macro tracker and fitness tracker assists users in developing lasting habits all in one location.
Alternatively, there’s the Hevy app. This complimentary workout tracker for iOS and Android enables people to establish routines and monitor advancement alongside friends.
Reviews for Simple on Trustpilot are extremely favourable, with users awarding an average 4.3 out of five star rating, based on over 7,000 reviews. One described the app as ‘consistently gorgeous’.
They wrote: “It’s a great project with a promising future… it’s reliable since it has its own exchange app outside (the) telegram. They are straight forward and care about the community.”
Another remarked on how user-friendly the app is. They said: “The experience was great due to the fact that it was easy to understand, not as complex as others.”
One individual left a more critical review, citing network problems. They noted: “The app is good, but improvements in processing speed is needed.” Another chimed in with: “Simple and easy to use. I love this app.”
Discover more about the Simple app here.