I swapped my weekly run for Japan's viral walking technique – the results were surprising

A woman walks along the boardwalk near the beach where she is traveling.

In Japan, the key to longevity and health is as simple as putting one foot in front of the other – walking. The Japanese don’t walk to stay fit; walking is woven into their daily routines.

Research consistently shows that it’s one of the most underrated forms of exercise. It boosts cardiovascular fitness, aids in weight management, and lifts mood, so it’s easy to see why.