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According to a new study, walking 7,000 steps a day can significantly cut the risk of major health issues.
Walking enhances brainpower, lowers heart disease, cancer, and dementia risks.
A new study published in The Lancet Public Health has revealed a surprising and welcome shift in how we view daily physical activity. Contrary to the widely accepted belief that 10,000 steps a day is the gold standard to keep many diseases away, the research shows that walking only 7,000 steps daily can significantly reduce the risk of several major health issues.
According to researchers, walking 7,000 steps daily can boost brainpower, while reducing risks of serious health issues like heart disease, cancer, dementia and depression.
For many people, this new benchmark offers a more achievable and less intimidating path to better health and longevity.
Regular walking has long been linked to various health benefits, but this study provides fresh insight into its impact. According to researchers, walking supports brain function by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and stimulating the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that help boost mood and relieve stress.
At the same time, it plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol, and support healthy weight management. These combined effects make walking a powerful, low-effort tool to reduce the risks of stroke and heart disease.
The Plateau Effect
Interestingly, the study also highlights what researchers refer to as a plateau effect. While walking more than 7,000 steps may offer incremental benefits, the most significant gains appear to level off beyond that point.
This means that for those unable to consistently reach the 10,000-step goal, there is no need for discouragement. Even small increases from 2,000 to 4,000 steps, for example, can lead to measurable health improvements over time.
One of the most encouraging takeaways is that walking is easily integrated into everyday routines. Unlike structured workouts, which often require time, planning, or gym access, walking can be done anywhere – while commuting, running errands, or taking breaks at work.
This flexibility makes walking appealing for older adults, individuals with demanding schedules, or those who are new to regular physical activity. It removes the pressure to work out in a conventional sense and instead encourages mindful movement throughout the day.
Health experts are emphasising a shift in mindset: the goal isn’t perfection, it’s consistency. Whether you walk 4,000 steps or reach the 7,000 mark, every bit of movement contributes to improved health outcomes.
This new understanding makes it easier to stay motivated, particularly for those who have found the 10,000-step goal unrealistic. It encourages people to focus on progress rather than perfection, an approach that’s more sustainable in the long run.
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Delhi, India, India
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