Walking 10,000 steps a day is often recommended for improving overall health, aiding weight loss, and maintaining cardiovascular fitness. But in today’s busy world, hitting that number daily can feel impossible. If you're someone who struggles to make time for long walks, there’s good news. A Japanese walking technique discovered in 2007 offers a powerful alternative. According to fitness coach Eugene Teo , this 30-minute protocol provides up to 10 times the benefits of traditional walking. It’s simple, efficient, and perfect for those short on time but eager to stay healthy and fit.
What is the Japanese walking technique
This technique, rooted in research from Japan, involves alternating between periods of fast and slow walking. Rather than aiming for a set number of steps, it’s all about intensity and interval timing. Specifically, the method includes five sets of:

• 3 minutes of brisk walking
• 3 minutes of relaxed walking

This interval cycle lasts for a total of 30 minutes. By switching between fast and slow walking, the body experiences improved cardiovascular stimulation and muscular engagement in less time.
How Japanese walking technique compares to walking 10,000 steps
Fitness coach Eugene Teo highlights that this method doesn’t just save time—it significantly boosts physical results. Based on studies, participants following this protocol experienced:

• 29 times more improvement in aerobic fitness
• 10 times greater gains in leg strength
• 3 times better blood pressure management
• In contrast, reaching 10,000 steps often takes one to two hours, depending on pace. This technique condenses the effort into a compact, effective 30-minute routine.

Why the technique works so well
The alternating pace mimics high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is known to maximize workout efficiency. The brief, repeated bursts of effort challenge the cardiovascular system while allowing short recovery periods, improving stamina, heart health, and muscle tone. This approach also makes walking feel more dynamic and less monotonous than simply aiming for a step count.
Who can benefit from this method
Anyone who feels too busy for long walks or is looking for a more effective use of their exercise time can benefit from this Japanese walking technique. It’s low-impact and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Plus, no special equipment is needed—just a good pair of walking shoes and a timer or watch.
If you're tired of falling short of your 10,000-step goal, consider trying this efficient and powerful alternative. The Japanese walking technique proves that it’s not about how much you walk, but how you walk. With just 30 minutes a day, you can unlock a wide range of health benefits and make fitness work for your lifestyle.