For years, it’s been widely known that 10,000 steps a day is the key to better health. Maybe you’ve lived by this recommendation and you aim to close all the rings on your smart watch. However, maybe you’ve felt overwhelmed at the thought of reaching the goal of 10,000 steps each day with how busy life can be.
Well, a recent study published by JAMA Network Open found that middle-age people who walk at least 7,000 steps a day on average were 50 to 70 percent less likely to die of any cause over the next decade, compared to those who took fewer steps.
“The results of this study indicate that we see the same benefits at 7,000 steps per day as we would at 10,000 steps per day as it relates to mortality,” Michael Hathaway, PT, DPT, ATC, MTC, AIB-CON, clinical supervisor of physical therapy and sports performance at Bon Secours Training Center (pictured above), shares. “For those that already take that many steps, this is a positive reinforcement to maintain their step activity. However, this may still seem like a lot of steps for a more sedentary individual who only averages 1,000 to 3,000 steps per day.”
For those that are looking to better their health, or increase their step count, Mike offers some advice.
“I would encourage anyone who is starting around 3,000 steps per day to start with a goal of increasing your steps per day by 500 steps. If you can add 500 steps per day each week, you could be up to 7,000 steps a day in just eight weeks.”
Of course, if you are already meeting or exceeding 10,000 steps per day, keep doing what you are doing. And if you’re looking to start your journey to better health, maintaining a minimum of 7,000 steps per day will help you get there.
Learn more about the orthopedic and sports medicine services Bon Secours has to offer in your area.
