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A recent study has revealed that walking 7,500 steps can reduce the risk of depression by up to 42%, while exceeding this number does not provide any additional benefits
A recent study has revealed that 10,000 steps is not an ideal benchmark. (News18)
Nowadays, everyone is aiming to walk 10,000 steps daily, believing this to be a healthy benchmark. The obsession is such that people often use smartwatches and fitness bands to track their progress. However, not everyone can reach this target. If you are disheartened about falling short, you will be pleased to know that you can stay healthy and fit even with fewer steps.
A recent study has revealed that 10,000 steps are not an ideal benchmark. According to the Daily Starscientists have concluded that walking fewer steps can still significantly benefit health. Research published in JAMA Network Open found that walking more than 7,500 steps per day offers no additional health benefits. In fact, walking 7,500 steps can reduce the risk of depression by up to 42%, while exceeding this number does not yield further advantages.
The study emphasises that even modest physical activity can lower the risk of depression. Experts recommend setting realistic and controlled goals for physical activity, as attempting to walk excessively may lead to mental and physical stress, potentially harming health. They also suggest that brisk walking for shorter periods can be as effective as walking slowly for extended durations.
Dr Lindsay Bottoms from the University of Hertfordshire in the UK highlighted that the 10,000-step goal is arbitrary and can give a misleading sense of health security. The research showed that even 4,400 steps daily can also enhance life expectancy. Similarly, Professor Tom Yates of Leicester University noted that walking 8,000 steps daily reduces the risk of premature death, but walking more than this offers no added benefits.
