For decades, many Americans have been obsessed with the idea of getting the perfect body. Each year, people strive to make themselves look like models and actors, or just to get in better shape.

Catering to these aspirations, new companies regularly come along promising the secret solution to getting in better shape without having to work out as much or strain as hard. Whether it is a new workout plan or a revolutionary piece of equipment, people are always willing to try out new fitness fads, hoping that they will provide the desired results.

24/7 Tempo reviewed fitness magazines, newspaper articles, and online publications to determine the exercise fad every year since 1956.

Many of these fitness fads go in and out of style very quickly. Some are gimmick weight loss tricks, and others are scientifically proven to be ineffective. Some of these fads can actually get people in better shape — so long as they can adhere to the program. Many people have a hard time sticking to exercise routines for a variety of reasons — including a lack of time, energy, or perseverance to work out regularly.

For those who want to keep it simple — it’s easy to forget that walking is actually an aerobic activity. After all, about 7 billion people do it every day. It’s low-impact, simple, natural, accessible, and has many health benefits. Here are 30 reasons why walking is the best exercise.

Click here to see the most popular exercise fad from the year you were born
Click here to see our detailed findings and methodology