I've recently started a walking diet. Is it better to walk as fast as possible until I'm dripping with sweat? What method do you recommend?
While walking improves cardiopulmonary function, overexertion can damage joints and trigger an intense appetite. In Traditional Korean Medicine, excessive sweating is viewed as depleting your vital Qi. It is more effective to maintain a steady pace where you are only 'slightly breathless' to match your current physical strength.
Walking is an excellent way to promote the circulation of Qi and Blood, helping the body expel Dameum (metabolic waste). It is particularly effective for those whose energy is stagnant due to stress. However, excessive speed can be counterproductive; for those carrying extra weight, pushing too hard can cause Eo-hyeol (blood stasis) in the joints, leading to pain. Furthermore, overexerting yourself can lead to Bi-heo (Spleen deficiency), a state where the body's digestive and metabolic energy weakens. When the body is exhausted this way, the brain enters a state of emergency, triggering compensatory overeating. I recommend walking at a pace where you feel 'pleasantly out of breath.' From a TKM perspective, breaking a light sweat on the forehead is the optimal intensity to preserve your Jeong-gi (Vital Qi) while burning body fat. Focus on finding your own pace and maintaining a 30-minute daily habit rather than chasing speed.
Clinician review