“How many steps did you get today? I’m at 8,000, so I’ll probably go around the block to get to 10,000.” Have you had or heard conversations like this? I do several times a week!
I’ll admit, I am more than a bit obsessed with steps. Other than filming HIIT videos here and there, it is my main source of cardio. AND I LOVE being outside! It is a stress reliever and even meditative for me. A break in the day. A way to connect with friends and family on the phone, listen to my favorite podcast, jam out to my tunes or just be with myself.
What is the real deal with how many steps we need to receive the cardiovascular benefits? A Harvard study and a study from the National Institutes of Health of people over 40 both showed that 7,500 – 8,000 steps a day reduced the risk of death over the following decade compared to those who took only 4,000 steps. AND intensity (number of steps per minute) was NOT a factor.
Well that’s great to hear and we all want those benefits, right? If you get about 2,500 a day doing your daily activities, that means going on a 2.5-3 mile walk will get you to that 7,500 step goal. One mile = 2,000 steps.
Stress reliefSo, get out there and get moving! There’s no reason not to! Do take safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, and walk in the daylight and with a friend whenever possible.
Ready for more? Top off those walks 2-4x a week with strength training and stretching with trainerkristen.com! Click HERE to get started today! You Got This!
References: Far fewer than 10,000 steps per day can boost health – Harvard School of Public Health, 2021
Number of steps per day more important than step intensity – National Institutes of Health, 2019
