The Hot Girl Walk: A Trend Worth Following?

Honestly? Hell yeah.

Why A Walk is Completely Enough

Like one of many emotionally strained, overly social people during the pits of pandemic blues — I found solace in a long walk. Free from FOMO guilt and far more space than the abided 6-feet minimum, a simple walk became a nightly routine. I set sail at dusk, admiring the sun-kissed horizon in a neighborhood I’ve always loved. I’d walk alone for optimal meditation to free myself from impending world doom. It was lovely.

It is lovely. I still prioritize a long walk at the end of my day.

Then, suddenly, the newly coined “Hot Girl Walk” grew popular. With some ground rules, my social algorithms became flooded with this flourishing mindful meditation practice. According to Elle, a hot girl walk consists of “taking a four-mile outdoor walk while listening to an inspirational podcast or a motivational playlist.”

It’s as simple as that. There are no other psychical movements or ultra-serious HIT exercises to abide by. Just a walk with a goal — to free yourself from the bullshit.

And while some seem to criticize the Hot Girl Walk’s overly optimistic mantra, comparing it to another green juice-loving, affluent white woman activity — I’m not entirely sure I agree. A walk is a walk. No Lulu Lemon leggings are needed, nor does it require an $11 latte, despite the flood of TikTok’s voiceovers. Frankly, you don’t need a motivational podcast; a nostalgic hit list of 2000s pop songs is enough. 

As ridiculously obvious as it might sound, you’d be surprised how improved your mood feels after moving the body with no external obligation. I never feel this invigorated after a gym session, mainly because I’m surrounded by swollen 50-year-old men who never smile back, but I digress. Although yoga will always be my first love, there’s a much different purpose felt post-savasana.

Walking feels like conquering. Blissful. And magical (though I hate that word).

A walk is simple. It’s easy and accessible. There are no appointments or scheduled times and no commute. It's just you, yourself, and the freedom of your human mind.

I find it easier to let the anxious thoughts pass without engaging with them. The mind trickles its own thoughts without my begging need to control every fit.

It’s freeing and provides exquisite relief. It's almost like being tipsy on wine, except it’s a safe yet exuberantly sober high.