Chinese Exercise vs. Japanese Walking: The 2025 Low-Impact Game-Changers for Your Gym?

Hey fitness fam, anyone else hearing clients groan about sore joints after HIIT? I’m over it, trust me.

Last month, I saw an X post from a Planet Fitness trainer begging for low-impact options—same, bro!

That’s when I dove into Chinese exercise (like Tai Chi) and Japanese walking exercise (interval walking, or IWT).

These are blowing up in 2025, and I think they’re a must for gyms like Anytime Fitness or Equinox looking to crush it.  Chinese exercises, like Tai Chi and Qigong, are all slow moves and mindfulness. Think ancient wisdom meets modern chill.



A 2024 Harvard Health study says Tai Chi cuts fall risk by 43% for seniors—perfect for LA Fitness’s new 50+ programs. Japanese walking? It’s 3 minutes fast walking, 3 minutes slow, for 30 minutes.

A 2024 Mayo Clinic study shows it boosts heart health 15% more than a 10,000-step slog. Orangetheory vibes, but no equipment needed.  

I run a small Chicago gym, and 2025’s all about sustainable fitness. Planet Fitness is leaning into “Judgement Free” low-impact classes, while Equinox’s mindfulness push includes Tai Chi-inspired sessions.

I tried both workouts myself—spoiler: my Tai Chi looked like a wobbly flamingo at first. But they’re legit. My clients love the variety, and their knees aren’t cursing me anymore.

Want the full scoop? I found this deep-dive blog on Chinese exercise vs. Japanese walking exercise that breaks down benefits, how to start, and which fits your vibe.

It’s packed with science and tips.  

IWT’s perfect for treadmill sessions or outdoor bootcamps, and Tai Chi’s a hit with my stress-head clients.

X users are hyping both—@FitDad2024 called IWT “cardio without the pain.” With gym chains like Crunch adding wellness-focused classes, these could be your 2025 edge. I’ve seen a 20% jump in senior memberships since adding Tai Chi, and IWT’s pulling in younger folks.  

So, what’s your gym’s take?
Are you jumping on the low-impact train with Tai Chi or IWT?
Got clients raving about them?
Check out that blog for ideas and spill the tea—what’s your 2025 fitness strategy?

Yo, this post is fire! I’m a trainer at Anytime Fitness, and Tai Chi’s killing it in our 2025 classes—our 50+ memberships jumped 15%, like your blog says.

I tried IWT on a treadmill, and my heart rate’s like, “Yes, ma’am!” Equinox’s mindfulness vibe inspired us, and X is buzzing about IWT.

That blog you linked is gold—gave me ideas for new classes.

Trust me, I’m pitching both to my boss.

Anyone got tips for marketing low-impact workouts to younger clients?

Say what? Tai Chi in a gym? I’m a Planet Fitness regular, and 2025’s all about “no pain” workouts.

Your blog link got me curious, but I’m picturing me flopping at Tai Chi like a drunk penguin. Tried IWT, though—legs worked, knees didn’t hate me.

Planet Fitness’s low-impact push is real.

I’ll try Tai Chi, but any advice for not looking like a total goof in a class full of pros?

Your post nails it. I run a gym in Ohio, and clients want joint-friendly workouts in 2025.

That blog you shared sold me—Tai Chi’s 43% fall-risk drop (Harvard) is perfect for our seniors.

IWT fits our treadmill crowd, like Orangetheory but cheaper.

I’m testing both next month—no gear, low cost.

My gym’s seeing more 50+ sign-ups, like Anytime Fitness’s trend.

Anyone tracking profits from low-impact classes?

What’s your ROI looking like?

This is epic! I coach at LA Fitness, and your blog on Chinese exercise vs. Japanese walking is a game-changer.

2025’s about sustainable fitness, and Tai Chi’s perfect for my stressed-out moms. IWT’s a cardio win—my energy’s soaring after trying it.

Crunch’s wellness classes are inspiring us.

Try one, folks—you’ll feel unstoppable! What’s your favorite low-impact workout this year?

Let’s keep the 2025 vibes high!

ot gonna lie, I’m skeptical. I lift at Equinox, and heavy weights are my thing.

Your blog link is cool, but Tai Chi sounds like yoga’s lame cousin, and Japanese walking?

Just fast walking?

Still, my older clients want low-impact stuff, and 2025’s trends lean that way (Planet Fitness ads, anyone?).

I’ll try IWT. Anyone seen real gains from these, or am I wasting my sweat?