Q. I want to lose weight using a treadmill. Is there an effective way to do it?

Treadmill exercise is a good method, but from a Traditional Korean Medicine perspective, the principle that 'qi leads the blood' is key. Exercise generates heat and accelerates circulation, which uses a lot of qi. People with spleen deficiency (biheo)—who often have poor digestion and fatigue—may feel even more drained after exercise. Through experience, I found it's not just about running but matching the exercise to your body's condition. Time-wise, approach it as follows: The first week is the 'activation stage.' Set the treadmill incline at 0–3%, speed to a brisk walk where you're slightly out of breath, for 20–30 minutes. In TKM, this stage opens qi and blood circulation; overdoing it can create phlegm-fluid (dameum). Weeks 2–4 are the 'adaptation stage.' Increase speed to a light jog, but use intervals: run 1–2 minutes, walk 3 minutes. At this point, combining herbal medicine that supports the spleen and stomach (e.g., Bojungikgi-tang formulas) can prolong exercise benefits. After one month is the 'stabilization stage.' Adjust intensity based on your pulse, appetite, and sleep. The key is not daily exercise but allowing recovery time—TKM views exercise as a type of medicine, and excess can deplete vital essence (jeonggi). I find 3–4 times per week, 30–40 minutes per session, appropriate. Ultimately, the core of treadmill dieting is whether your constitution can handle the exercise. If you tend toward spleen deficiency or blood deficiency (hyeolheo), exercise alone may not prevent rebound weight gain. When you visit, we can perform simple pulse and tongue diagnosis to determine your optimal exercise intensity and timing for herbal support.