Good morning, DFW,
I came across a Culture Map article saying that walking was the hot fitness trend of 2026. As a person who lost 20 pounds in about four months from only miles-long, aimless walking in 2020, I was curious to read more. The walking suggested isn’t your average stroll, but strategic methods to build strength and tone your core. Here are a few methods that get you off the treadmill and out with nature.
The 6-6-6 (Yes, I was freaked out when I saw this, too.)
This trend requires 60 minutes of brisk walking, with six minutes of warm-up and six minutes of cool down. Oftentimes, people do this at 6 a.m. or 6 p.m. The consistency of this makes it an easy goal to stick to.
Power walking
This is an oldie, but goodie, giving you a full-body workout by walking fast enough to complete 3-5 miles an hour, pumping your arms, and engaging your core to do the work of five machines in the gym.
The Japanese Walking Method
This one has science on its side and is proven to improve blood pressure. Walk briskly for three minutes at medium-high effort, then slow down for three more minutes. You repeat this pattern five times for a 30-minute workout.
Now, do you need some walking trail suggestions? I got you.