We all hear “10,000 steps a day” as the marker of optimal health; but, is it true? It can be easy to stress about getting all of your steps in, or even to feel guilty if you don’t hit the illusive 10k! But I have some good news…
The reality is that the “10k step goal” is NOT scientifically backed—it was made up! The Japanese clock company Yamasa came up with the idea of walking 10,000 steps a day in the 1960s as part of a marketing campaign for their pedometer. The goal was to promote an active lifestyle. When they created the ad, there was no scientific merit and it was, truly, completely a promotional campaign. Somehow, it picked up steam quickly and became a staple for brands such as Fitbit–who we know as one of the founders of step-tracking and the craze around it.
One recent study in The Lancet looked into the idea of 10,000 steps a day and found that 7,000 steps a day is closer to what people need for maintaining good health. Fortune Well also notes, “‘That 10,000 steps was never a peer-reviewed number,’ says Howard Luks, an orthopedic surgeon in New York and the author of Longevity Simplified: Living a Longer, Healthier Life Shouldn’t Be Complicated. ‘There’ve been a lot of studies of late that show that we really only need 6,000 to 7,000 steps a day to derive a pretty significant benefit.’”
So should you still stress? And, is less more? Making sure you hit your minimum is awesome; then, focus on other forms of exercise that positively impact your health. Primarily: STRENGTH! Strength training should be at the foundation of your fitness. Having strong muscles leads to stronger bones, a higher metabolism, better brain health, a higher functioning digestive system, a more efficient heart, more energy, improved hormone regulation, heightened endurance and stamina and SO much more.
Do NOT stress over STEPS!
