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Slow Jogging: The Gentle Approach to Fitness Gaining Global Popularity
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Firstpost•20-09-2026, 17:46
Slow Jogging: The Gentle Approach to Fitness Gaining Global Popularity
- •Slow jogging, developed by Japanese researcher Hiroaki Tanaka, encourages a "smiling pace" for cardiovascular fitness, countering traditional high-intensity exercise.
- •This low-intensity activity is particularly beneficial for inactive individuals or beginners, offering an accessible way to meet WHO physical activity recommendations.
- •Slow jogging helps improve cardiorespiratory fitness, regulate blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and reduce risks of heart disease and stroke.
- •The social aspect of slow jogging, often done in groups, enhances enjoyment and long-term adherence, while also providing mental health benefits.
- •Even experienced athletes can benefit from slow jogging as a "zone 2 pace" workout to build aerobic base and improve fat-burning efficiency.
Key Questions Answered
Slow jogging is a fitness trend that encourages taking short steps and moving at a comfortable pace where you can hold a conversation, known as a smiling or niko-niko pace. It was originally developed by a Japanese researcher named Hiroaki Tanaka.
For largely sedentary people, slow jogging provides a meaningful stimulus to the cardiovascular system, helps regulate blood sugar, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the future risk of heart disease and stroke.
For active people and endurance athletes, slow jogging aligns with 'zone 2 pace' to help build a foundational aerobic base, teach the body to burn more fat for energy, and serve as an easier option on days when high-intensity training is not needed.
