Walking at least 2,200 steps a day reduces the risk of early death
According to a study conducted in the UK, walking at least 2,200 steps a day, up to 10,000 steps, reduces the risk of early death.
A study published by the British Journal of Sports Medicine in the UK once again highlighted the importance of walking for a healthy lifestyle. Data obtained from more than 70,000 individuals aged 61 or older was examined in the study conducted by academics from the University of Sydney. According to the research, every extra step taken above 2,200 steps per day reduces the risk of early death. Even if the rest of the day is spent sedentary, walking up to 10,000 steps a day helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
Participants in the study were fitted with measurement devices for 7 days to determine their exercise levels. After a 7-year follow-up conducted by experts, 1,633 participants died, while 6,190 individuals experienced cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.
Researchers concluded that walking between 9,000 and 10,500 steps a day reduces the risk of early death by 39% and the risk of heart attack or stroke by one-fifth. The individuals with the lowest risk of stroke and heart attack were in the group that walked approximately 9,700 steps per day.
150 minutes of exercise per week is necessary for a healthy lifestyle
Julie Ward, a nurse at the British Heart Foundation, stated, “We know that daily physical activity is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. These promising new studies show us that every step taken towards reaching the goal of 10,000 steps a day is important in reducing the risk of early death and heart disease.” Ward also emphasized the need for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week for heart health and circulation, stating, “This can be any activity that fits into your lifestyle, such as regular walking breaks that take you away from your computer screen, going to the gym, attending exercise classes, or getting off the bus one stop earlier to walk more.”