In the fitness world, where intense trends often dominate, a surprising workout ‘trend’ has emerged—walking. Ashley Mateo delves into how this humble and accessible exercise, once overlooked, has evolved into a widely embraced fitness routine.
The Rise of Walking During the Pandemic: As gyms closed and home fitness equipment became scarce during the early days of the pandemic, the simplicity of walking emerged as a go-to solution. Beyond being a means of physical activity, walking offered a refreshing change of scenery and a mental reset, gaining recognition for its holistic benefits. The trend has not waned, finding a prominent place on social media platforms like TikTok with the #hotgirlwalk.
Shifting Exercise Paradigms: The shift towards embracing walking as a legitimate workout can be traced back to 2018 when the U.S. government revised exercise recommendations, removing specific duration requirements. Michelle Segar, a physical activity researcher, notes that the message changed from strict intensity guidelines to an inclusive approach where every form of physical activity counts. Walking, particularly, gained prominence as it can be incorporated in short bursts throughout the day, eliminating the need for a dedicated workout session.
The Pandemic Effect: The pandemic accelerated the appreciation for low-impact workouts, with Amanda Freeman, founder and CEO of SLT, observing a shift towards longevity-focused exercises. Walking, perceived as sustainable and suitable for all fitness levels, gained recognition as a workout one can continue indefinitely.
Walking as Stress Relief: Peloton instructor Kirsten Ferguson highlights the stress-relieving aspect of walking, emphasizing the unique relaxation it provides compared to higher-intensity workouts. Exercising in green spaces, associated with reduced cortisol levels and blood pressure, adds to the appeal of walking as a mindful fitness choice.
The Social Media Influence: Social media played a pivotal role in the walking trend’s resurgence. Platforms like Peloton and others introduced walking-focused classes, making it a shareable and community-building experience. The rebranding of walking transformed it into a fashionable workout choice, attracting individuals who may have been hesitant about exercise.
Turning Walking into a Workout: Walking’s versatility allows individuals to tailor its intensity to personal preferences. Fitness enthusiasts can quicken their pace, add intervals and inclines, or focus on refining their form for an effective workout. The pressure-free nature of walking contributes to its widespread adoption and the sense of inclusivity within fitness communities.
The Timeless Appeal of Walking: Unlike fleeting fitness trends, walking’s enduring nature is attributed to its fundamental status as a human activity. Michelle Segar acknowledges that while it may not always be deemed ‘cool’ in the fitness world, walking is likely to persist in some form.
Conclusion: The walking trend, born out of necessity during the pandemic, has evolved into a resilient fitness mainstay. Its accessibility, adaptability, and stress-relieving qualities have carved a niche in the ever-changing landscape of fitness trends, proving that the simple act of walking is, and will continue to be, a fundamental and enduring part of the human experience.
