FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the Reset Method
Answers to common questions.
Basics
What is the Reset Method?
A way of embodying our management philosophy — “It’s okay to stop. Every time you start walking again, that step changes your future.” — through mind and body.
A practical philosophy for maintaining and optimizing mental and physical well-being by having the courage to pause rather than pushing forward, and for cultivating meaningful connections through life’s encounters.
Details: What is the Reset Method?
Why “it’s okay to stop”?
Because pushing forward nonstop breaks both mind and body.
Many push themselves relentlessly, driven by fear: “If I stop, my career is over.” “If I rest, I’ll fall behind.” But deciding in advance that “it’s okay to stop” often lets you make it to the end.
Of course, there are no guarantees. But one thing is certain: stopping doesn’t mean it’s over.
→ Read more: Resistance and Intentional Reset
Can anyone practice this?
Yes. Run if you can run. Walk if you can walk. Either works.
The Reset Method isn’t just about running. You can practice it while commuting, walking, or working.
- Want to run → Reset Running, Shiso, TabiRUN
- Want to walk → Reset Walk
- Want to practice daily → Reset Daily
- Want to practice at work → Reset Work
How is this different from other methods?
It prioritizes connections and stories over time and distance.
Many running methods aim to “run faster” or “run longer.” The Reset Method aims to “minimize physical strain while savoring connections and weaving stories.”
Experience over results. The people and scenery you encounter matter more than your finish time.
Reset Running
Why the 15-minute + 5-minute cycle?
15 minutes is an appropriate length for maintaining focus. Beyond that, fatigue starts to accumulate.
5 minutes of walking provides sufficient recovery. Heart rate drops, oxygen supply to muscles recovers. You also have time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and record your connections.
The 75% running ratio (15 minutes out of 20) feels close to the limit of “what you can sustain without strain.”
However, this is just a guideline. Find the cycle that works for you.
→ Read more: Why 15+5?
Should I reset my cycle when waiting at traffic lights?
Short waits (1-2 minutes) can be included in your cycle without issue.
For longer waits at traffic lights or railroad crossings, judge flexibly based on the situation. What matters isn’t “following the rules” but “listening to your body.”
If you feel sufficiently recovered during a wait, you can shorten your walking time. Remember the Six Principles: “Stay flexible.”
→ Read more: Traffic Lights and Cycles
Can I really recover in 5 minutes of walking?
Yes, in most cases.
In 5 minutes, your heart rate settles and oxygen supply to muscles recovers. If you feel like resting more, keep walking. Prioritize your body’s voice.
Also, 5 minutes of walking isn’t just for recovery — it’s time to savor. Take photos, enjoy the scenery, breathe deeply. Use it that way.
Won’t walking slow my time?
Surprisingly, for most recreational runners, the impact on finish time is less than expected.
Rather than pushing yourself until you crash in the second half, maintaining a steady pace with walking breaks often results in a better finish time.
The longer the distance, the more this holds true. For distances over 100km, “not crashing” matters far more than “not walking.”
Of course, elite runners have different approaches. Reset Running is for recreational runners who prioritize completion and enjoyment over records.
→ Read more: Does Walking Slow You Down?
What if the race has a tight time limit?
Several options:
- Increase running pace — Maintain the 15:5 cycle but run faster
- Adjust the cycle — Switch to 12:3 (80%) or 9:1 (90%)
- Choose different races — Select events with more generous time limits
The Reset Method prioritizes “minimizing physical strain.” Pushing your body for time limits goes against the method’s intent.
That said, if there’s a race you want to challenge, that’s also a valid choice.
How do I set up my smartwatch?
Most smartwatches have an “interval timer” feature.
Set it to repeat 15 minutes running → 5 minutes walking. Alarms or vibrations will signal transition times.
For training and races alike, keep it simple: just “15 and 5” on repeat. This simplicity frees your mind for connections and listening to your body.
Can I combine this with other running methods?
Yes, you can.
However, maintain the Six Principles, especially “prioritize your body’s voice.” When methods conflict, ask your body.
What is Shiso (Training Runs)?
Daily running practice. Races and TabiRUN aren’t the only “stories” — each day of training leading up to them is a “pre-episode.”
Shiso is both a physical rehearsal and a mental rehearsal. During long periods of movement, you cultivate the ability to savor the moment, notice things, and develop sensitivity.
Details: Shiso (Training Runs)
How often should I do training runs?
As often as you can sustain. 2-3 times a week, 5-10km each, is a good guideline.
Consistency matters more than distance. Running 5km on weekdays beats running 30km only on weekends — your body and mind stay more stable.
What’s the difference between Shiso and Reset Daily?
Shiso is daily practice with running as the premise. Reset Daily is daily practice without running (commuting, walking, etc.).
On running days, practice Shiso with 15:5. On non-running days, practice Reset Daily. Both cultivate “mental endurance.”
TabiRUN
How is TabiRUN different from races?
TabiRUN has no times or rankings.
You plan where to run, weave connections with the local scenery, food, and people, and create your own story. That’s TabiRUN.
You can also enjoy races as “journeys.” Instead of chasing time limits, savor the path. That’s the TabiRUN spirit.
Is it still TabiRUN if I run alone?
Yes, running alone is still TabiRUN.
Solo or with companions — both are fine. Running a race with a journey mindset is also fine. From the moment you think “Where should I TabiRUN this weekend?” the journey has begun.
What about luggage?
Options vary by distance and duration:
- Day trip to 1 night — Light running backpack with essentials
- 2+ days — Ship luggage to accommodations, use support vehicle, etc.
The longer the distance, the more weight strains your body. Think about what NOT to bring rather than what to bring.
What if I want to quit midway?
Quit. Withdrawal takes courage too.
We recommend checking escape routes beforehand — points where you can exit: stations, bus stops, places where you can call a taxi.
“I have to finish” is understandable, but breaking your body defeats the purpose. End in a state where you can start walking again.
Daily Practice
I can’t make special time…
You don’t need special time.
Commuting, shopping, walking. Just “walking consciously” on your usual routes is practice.
- Get off one station early
- Take a different route than usual
- Find one connection before passing through the ticket gate
Details: Reset Daily
I can’t keep up with recording
Perfection isn’t necessary.
- One photo is enough
- 10 seconds of voice memo is enough
- Just noting it mentally is enough
Don’t worry about missed days. Just start again the next day.
What if I can’t run for days?
Walking is valid practice too.
If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, just consciously look around during your commute.
The Reset Method isn’t just about running. Start walking again, as many times as you need.
”Stopping” at work seems impossible…
Start with small things.
- Once an hour, look away from your screen
- Go get water (forces you to stand)
- Take 5 minutes alone before and after meetings
Details: Reset Work
Other
I have a question…
Please feel free to reach out.
Common questions are added to this FAQ regularly.