What Is a Fart Walk? The Trend Your Gut Will Love

What the Heck Is a Fart Walk?

Yep, it’s really called a “fart walk” A name that’s silly on the surface but tied to a surprisingly smart wellness trend that’s blowing up online. Coined by Canadian cookbook author Mairlyn Smith, a fart walk is simply a short, gentle stroll taken shortly after eating, And it’s designed to help relieve bloating, gas, and general post-meal discomfort.

Despite the cheeky branding, this isn’t just a TikTok gimmick. Walking after meals has long been recommended by health experts to support digestion. Now, the internet’s just giving it a name we won’t forget.

The Science Behind It

Why does a quick walk after lunch make such a difference? It comes down to how our digestive system works. After eating, your gut kicks into gear with peristalsis, or rhythmic muscle contractions that move food through your digestive tract. A gentle walk helps stimulate this process, making it easier for your body to move things along (including trapped gas).

Dr. Anamika Reed, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Yale, notes that walking can be even more effective at relieving post-meal bloating than some prescription medications. And according to gastroenterologist Dr. Mikhail Yakubov, just 10 to 15 minutes of walking is often enough to see a difference.

Beyond digestion, walking also supports blood sugar regulation by helping your muscles absorb glucose more efficiently. Some studies suggest this can help prevent insulin spikes and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular post-meal walks have also been linked to lower blood pressure and improved heart health.

Surprising Health Benefits of Fart Walks

• Better Blood Sugar Control: A short stroll can help flatten glucose spikes after meals
• Less Bloating and Gas: Light walking helps food and air bubbles move through your system
• Cardiovascular Support: Regular movement post-meal may support heart health
• Mood Boost: Walking releases feel-good endorphins and reduces stress
• More Energy: Helps you avoid the post-meal slump by gently activating your body

How to Start Fart Walking

You don’t need to overthink it. To get the benefits:

• Walk within 30 to 60 minutes after eating
• Keep it light and easy — 10 to 15 minutes is enough
• Posture tip: Some swear by clasping your hands behind your back and leaning slightly forward. Supposedly it helps gas pass
• Consistency matters more than intensity

Whether it’s a loop around your neighborhood, a stroll through the park, or a few laps in your office hallway, any gentle movement counts.

Think of it less like a workout and more like a digestive ritual. It’s an easy habit that pays off.

How Fart Walking Compares to Other Post-Meal Habits

• Lying Down: Can feel relaxing but may worsen acid reflux and slow digestion.
• Drinking Herbal Tea: May offer minor benefits, but lacks the active stimulation of movement.
• Yoga Poses: Certain stretches help digestion, but many are impractical right after eating.

Compared to these, a short walk is simple, low-effort, immediately effective and accessible to nearly everyone with minimal risk. No yoga mat or peppermint tea required.

The Verdict

Sure, the name might make you laugh. But fart walking is one of those rare internet trends that’s actually worth trying. It’s simple, free, and backed by real benefits — from easing digestion to boosting your mood.

So go ahead. Take a walk after that burrito. Your gut will thank you.

Tony Simons

Tony has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix and over 11 years of writing experience between multiple publications in the tech, photography, lifestyle, and deal industries.