The latest one – dubbed the 10-2-20 workout – sounds deceptively simple and involves a 20 minute walk on the treadmill.

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But users claim the method could help you lose up to 15lbs in a matter of weeks.

It’s not the first time a numbered workout has taken the app by storm.

You might remember the viral 12-3-30 routine, which involved setting your treadmill to 3mph at a 12 per cent incline and walking on it for 30 minutes.

The 10-2-20 workout is essentially a revised – and less intense – version of this, but users say it still yields results.

Can a 20 minute treadmill workout really help you lose weight?

We spoke to Joanna Dase, global fitness expert at Curves, to find out.

What is the 10-2-20 workout?

Speaking to Sun Health, Joanna said: “Simply put, the treadmill incline is set to 10 per cent the speed is 2mph and then you walk for 20 minutes.”

She said the scaled down alternative to the 12-3-30 workout is “particularly suited for those who don’t do cardio often, experience joint pain, or have concerns about their cardiovascular health“.

The original workout can be traced back to influencer Lauren Giraldo, who shared the 12-3-30 treadmill on TikTok in November 2020.

According to Joanna, Lauren notes that you shouldn’t hold onto the treadmill handles for the duration of your workout and should also include a five-minute warm up and cool down without any incline. 

“The main reason this workout is making a comeback is because of how accessible it is,” Joanna said.

“Running can be intimidating, but walking on a treadmill is an easy form of exercise, considering it’s something we naturally do every day.

“When exercising becomes simple to do, and only requires one machine, you are more likely to stay consistent with your routine and see results.”

Can the workout lead to weight loss?

TikTok creator @simplysuzie uploaded clips of her trying the workout.

In one she claimed that doing the 12-3-30 or 10-2-20 routine and weight lifting four times a week could help lose 10-15lbs of fat in six to eight weeks without “crazy dieting“.

Meanwhile, Joanna said it’s wise to approach promises of weight loss with “scepticism”.

“Weight loss is highly individualised and whether it’s realistic depends on several factors including your diet, metabolism, starting weight, fitness level and overall lifestyle,” she explained.

How can I try the workout myself?

Joanna said: “For those looking to improve their fitness level and lose weight, I would suggest incorporating the 10-2-20 routine twice weekly alongside a 30-minute full-body workout for the remaining three days, followed by two rest days.”

While the 10-2-20 routine will take care of your cardio, your total body workout should “incorporate upper body and lower body strength training, metabolic exercises, and stretching – allowing you to work every major muscle group and build muscle”.

According to the fitness expert: “This will help avoid hitting a plateau with your workouts, as there will be a time where your muscles get used to the intensity of the 10-2-20 exercise.

“Whilst you could increase the intensity of the workout back to the original 12-3-30, I wouldn’t recommend going much higher than a 12 per cent incline, as this can cause significant stress on the joints, particularly the knees and ankles.

“It’s important to listen to your body and adjust the incline and intensity of your workouts to avoid over-straining.”

And if you’ve got any concerns about your heart or joint health, speak to qualified fitness coach before trying the trend, she advised.

“If you want to give the 10-2-20 exercise a go, it’s important to ease into it safely, set realistic expectations and stay consistent to see results,” Joanna noted.

“Remember, the most effective exercise for your routine is the one that you genuinely enjoy doing on a regular basis.”

What other benefits can I get from the 10-2-20 workout?

Aside from weight loss, the 10-2-20 routine could yield a number of other benefits, Joanna said.

For starters, this short and approachable workout can still give improve your mood.

“When feeling overwhelmed, a 20-minute exercise session can improve your mood and help instil a sense of accomplishment, thanks to the release of endorphins,” Joanna explained.

“Exercise is a well-known mood booster, helping to improve anxiety, depression, and stress levels” and can also “help you sleep more soundly”, she added.

The 20 minute treadmill burst might can also lead to wider health gains.

“Any form of cardio, including walking, strengthens your heart and lungs,” Joanna went on.

“This can improve your endurance and make everyday activities easier.

“Also, inclines require your butt, back, and leg muscles to work harder to overcome gravity.

“As a result, your heart will beat faster in order to meet the demands of this muscular effort and your lower body will build more strength in the process.

“This reduces the risk of osteoporosis and further injury from this condition, such as bone fractures.”