Japanese walking vs. 10,000 steps: which is better?

Written by: Deepa

8 September 2025

Walking is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy.

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Japan, however, has a different way to walk, which may prove to be better than merely 10,000 steps. Let's find out why.

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The Japanese walking method is different than the classic 10,000 steps, because it's not solely focused on the quantity of steps, but instead emphasizes posture, breathing, & each mindful step being an effective step  and energizes the body and mind.

The Japanese walking method

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This walking technique encourages you to be upright and engage your core, which is beneficial for spinal alignment. You will still be walking, but with a more purposeful approach that may help reduce back pain, compared to walking heedlessly 10,000 steps.

Better for posture

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The Japanese method allows you to control your breathing throughout the walk, which takes in more oxygen, allowing your body to burn calories more effectively, while providing a calming effect for the mind.

Better with breathing

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Instead of continually chasing a large step-count, the Japanese walking method emphasizes the effectiveness of each step, allowing you to gain more benefits in the same or less time than mindlessly walking 10,000 steps.

Effectiveness vs. Quantity

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Mindful walking not only relieves stress but also enhances focus and aids emotional stability in ways that merely counting steps cannot.

Enhances Mental Clarity

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The Japanese technique is more sustainable than the pressure of achieving 10,000 steps, and can be practiced daily without feeling fatigued.

Sustainable Lifestyle

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Both forms of walking have health benefits, however the Japanese technique has a combined approach of movement, mindfulness and posture, and this integrated approach, complements long term well-being.

Final Takeaway

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