Fart Walking is a thing, and it's trending on TikTok.

Before you roll your eyes at yet another viral fitness craze, hear this: walking trends like Fart Walking, Hot Girl Walks, and the Grumpy Girl Stomp might actually be doing more for your mental health than you think. And no, we're not just talking about the physical perks.

TikTok has turned the simple act of walking into a cultural moment. The Hot Girl Walk has become one of the platform's most enduring fitness trends, while Fart Walking, a post-meal stroll designed to ease bloating and support digestion, is quickly becoming the internet's newest obsession. Then there's the Grumpy Girl Stomp, perfect for when you need to literally walk off your bad mood.

But what's really happening here? Are these trends just clever marketing for an activity humans have been doing since, well, forever? Or is there something deeper at play?

Clinical Psychologist Dr. Cassidy Jenkins says these viral walks are tapping into something genuinely beneficial for our brains.

"Plenty of fitness trends on social media are more hype than anything else, but walking trends like Fart Walking or Hot Girl Walks have bigger benefits separated from the physical ones—and that's that it motivates people to get moving, which is always the first step," Dr. Jenkins explains.

So what exactly are these psychological perks? Here's what science (and TikTok) tells us.

5 Mental Health Benefits of “TikTok Walks”

It's a Natural Mood Booster

Feeling off? A quick walk might be exactly what your brain needs. 

"Physical activity, even something as simple as light walking, triggers the release of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which are the brain's natural mood boosters," says Dr. Jenkins. "Trends like the Grumpy Girl Stomp reframe irritability or anger as something that can be moved through thanks to natural hormonal releases."

In other words, you're not just stomping away your frustration: you're literally changing your brain chemistry.

It Takes the Pressure Off

If the thought of stepping into a gym makes your palms sweat, you're not alone. Around 50% of non-gym goers say the idea of going to the gym feels intimidating.

 Enter: walking trends that require nothing but your feet and maybe a good playlist.

"TikTok walking trends are low-pressure and non-competitive, making them perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by traditional fitness settings," Dr. Jenkins notes. No judgment, no mirrors, no comparing yourself to the person deadlifting twice your body weight.

It Helps you Reconnect with Your Body

When was the last time you thought about your body without criticizing it? Walking, especially trends like the Hot Girl Walk, which emphasize positive self-talk and confidence, can shift that internal dialogue.

"Moving your body regularly helps you reconnect with it in a non-critical way," says Dr. Jenkins. "Hot Girl Walks, for example, emphasize the impact of positive self-talk, gratitude and confidence, all of which contribute to healthier self-esteem."

It Makes Building Habits Easier

Let's be honest: sticking to a fitness routine is hard. But viral trends come with built-in motivation and a sense of fun that traditional workouts often lack.

"Creating a consistent fitness habit can be challenging, especially without structure or motivation. These trends offer a fun, manageable way to build a routine without requiring high motivation levels, making them ideal for beginners or those returning to movement after a break," Dr. Jenkins explains.

It Brings People Together

Even solo walks can feel less lonely when you know thousands of others are doing the same thing. 

"Participating in viral trends can foster a sense of belonging, which is key for emotional well-being and reducing loneliness," says Dr. Jenkins. "Many of these walks can be done with a friend, partner or even children. Though, let's be honest, Fart Walking is probably more of a solo venture."

To Sum Up… 

Not every TikTok fitness trend is worth your time (remember the dry scooping pre-workout challenge?), but the walking-based ones? They're onto something.

"It's important to be mindful when jumping on popular fitness trends that not all of them will be beneficial, but the walking-based ones should definitely be added to your to-try list," Dr. Jenkins concludes. "They're low effort, easy ways to get yourself motivated and active—plus, they are a bit of fun!"

So whether you're stomping out stress, affirming your way to confidence, or yes, walking off that post-dinner bloat, your brain is reaping the benefits. And honestly? Doesn’t matter how you got there.