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New daily step target set by experts

A study suggests 7,000 steps per day is sufficient for health benefits.

July 25, 2025 at 01:00 AM
blur Doctors settle debate on how many steps you should take a day - it's not 10,000

Recent research suggests aiming for 7,000 steps each day could be most beneficial.

Experts identify new target for daily steps

A recent study published in The Lancet Public Health Journal challenges the long-standing goal of 10,000 steps per day as optimal for health. The research indicates that about 7,000 daily steps can significantly lower the risk of serious health issues, including dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Analyzing data from over 160,000 individuals, the study found that even stepping as low as 4,000 steps daily offers marked improvements in health. Though considered positive news for those struggling to reach higher step counts, some limitations in the findings highlight uncertainties in their connections to cancer and dementia risk. Experts agree that any increase in physical activity is beneficial and that lower step targets may encourage more individuals to walk regularly.

Key Takeaways

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New research suggests 7,000 steps is optimal for health benefits
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Lower daily step counts are linked to reduced health risks
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Physical activity improvements can happen with increments as small as 1,000 steps
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The study analyzed over 160,000 people across 32 studies
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Experts note that higher step counts do not necessarily yield additional benefits
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Realistic fitness goals may encourage more individuals to be active

"This study adds to the body of knowledge that shows physical activity is vitally important for health."

Steve Harridge emphasizes the necessity of being active for overall health.

"The real-world implications are that people can get health benefits just from small increases in physical activity."

Dr. Daniel Bailey highlights the impact of minor changes on health.

This new guideline shifts the focus from an unrealistic goal towards a more achievable target. It highlights the behavioral change that might come from knowing that just 7,000 steps can result in substantial health benefits. As people seek ways to incorporate exercise into their daily lives, this finding serves as a call to action, urging individuals to embrace physical activity without feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations. If more people realize that even minor increases in activity can improve health, we may see a greater collective shift towards a more active lifestyle overall.

Highlights

  • Walking just 7,000 steps can change your health dramatically
  • New research shows even 4,000 steps benefit health
  • Aim lower—7,000 steps may be the new fitness gold standard
  • Increase your steps, improve your life.

Concerns about public health messaging

The shift from the widely accepted 10,000 steps recommendation to 7,000 may confuse some individuals, impacting public perception of fitness norms.

As walking emerges as a vital part of daily health, new goals can spur more people into action.

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