It also mentions using 4-5 strokes on just the heel portion followed 4-5 strokes on just the toe portion of the blade followed by hoing for the full blade length.
As you mention, Joe, varying your pressure would also create the increased wear but the fineness of the edge would vary using the pressure method. Sectional honing would allow a person to keep a constant pressure and thus a better uniformity of sctratch pattern depth.
Just my two cents here, :)