Niko Niko Slow Jogging
Don't forget to smile.
For a few months now, I've been doing 'Niko Niko slow jogging' for roughly 30-40 minutes every weekday, and I’ve found it to be a good experience. I wanted to share my thoughts here.
To begin, it’s important to explain what Niko Niko is. For a detailed explanation please see this page:
Karl
Niko Niko slow jogging is less of an intensive workout and more of a "moving meditation" to get the blood flowing daily with clear physical and mental benefits. Despite it's name it’s a form of exercise that more closely resembles a fast walk than an actual jog and it prioritizes comfort and sustainability over intensity. You should be able to hold a conversation with a smile while you jog—if you can’t, you’re likely going too fast.
I’ve found this works well for me because it can be done in nearly any environment, at any time, and with minimal preparation. Personally, I like to do it first thing in the morning. It’s a great way to start the day with a serotonin boost and the satisfaction of knowing my workout is already done. This ensures that no unexpected events later in the day will disrupt my routine.
Why I Love Niko Niko
Physical Benefits
- It’s gentle on the body, reducing the risk of injuries. This is especially important for people recovering from previous injuries (like me).
- The slow pace helps stay within the "fat-burning zone," making it great for weight management without pushing your body too hard.
- You don’t get excessively sweaty or exhausted afterward, so it’s easier to integrate into a daily schedule.
Mental Benefits
- It provides a daily mood boost, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.
- The leisurely pace prevents obsessive tendencies to overtrain, which has been a challenge for me in the past.
- It’s a stress-free activity with no competition or strict goals.
Practical Benefits
- It’s easy to start small, even with just 5-10 minutes, making it accessible for beginners and older individuals.
- There’s no need for specialized equipment or specific locations. You can do it anywhere.
Lessons from My Journey
Years ago, I pushed myself too hard, running 10km daily at my heaviest weight, which led to a serious leg injury that took a long time to rehab. Even now, I occasionally notice recurring pain, but Niko Niko has taught me to listen to my body and take things slower. This form of jogging emphasizes consistency over intensity, helping me avoid further injuries while maintaining a healthy routine.
Additionally, combining Niko Niko with heart rate training has been helpful. Staying in the "fat-burning zone" aligns with my primary goal of exercising for overall health rather than extreme performance.
Getting Started
If you’re interested, I recommend starting small. Begin with 5-10 minutes and gradually work up to 20 minutes or more as you feel comfortable. The key is to enjoy the process and keep it sustainable. Focus on maintaining a slow pace where you can hold a conversation and smile. Remember, this is not about racing or achieving milestones—it’s about movement and mindfulness.
Want to Learn More?
For those who want to dive deeper, there’s a helpful YouTube channel by the founder and his association:
Happy jogging … and don’t forget to smile.
