2023-08-30 14:18:15
“The more you walk, the more health benefits you get,” the researchers report. Each increase of 1,000 steps beyond 4,000 reduces the risk of premature death by 15%, until reaching 20,000 steps.
Professor Maciej Banach, from the University of Lodz, emphasizes that this research underscores the importance of lifestyle changes. “I think we should always emphasize that lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, might be at least as effective, if not more so, in reducing cardiovascular risk and prolonging life,” the researcher noted.
These benefits, experts emphasize, are applicable to all genders and ages, regardless of geographic location. However, the greatest benefits are seen in individuals under 60 years of age.
The World Health Organization reports that physical inactivity is responsible for 3.2 million deaths annually, ranking it as the fourth most common cause of death worldwide. Fitness expert Honey Fine stresses that lack of activity can have a negative impact on health, especially due to prolonged sitting.
“Thermogenesis, also known as NEAT, is crucial,” Fine says, referring to activities that aren’t direct exercise but do burn calories, such as standing, doing housework and walking while talking on the phone.
Fine emphasizes that adding regular walks to your daily routine can have significant health rewards. From lowering blood pressure to strengthening muscles to improving mental health, walking presents itself as a low-impact solution suitable for almost anyone.
The personal trainer also shares practical tips for incorporating more steps into everyday life, from walking to the train station instead of taking the car, to taking daily 30-minute walks while listening to a podcast.
In short, this new study challenges the traditional notion of 10,000 steps a day as the ideal threshold for health, showing that less than half that number can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of premature mortality and improving heart health.
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