I walked 10000 steps every day for a week instead of going to the gym – here are 3 things I learned

Madison Gordon 12 months ago 2 min read

Title: The Health Benefits of Walking 10,000 Steps a Day: A Simpler Alternative to the New Year Health Kick

Subtitle: Research suggests that walking 10,000 steps per day can significantly improve overall health and reduce the risk of mortality, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

In the midst of the traditional New Year health kick, where intense exercise routines are often touted as the go-to solution, a simple yet effective alternative may have emerged: walking. Fitness enthusiasts have long promoted the goal of walking 10,000 steps per day, a number that originated from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics but is now being recognized for its health benefits.

Extensive studies have shown that walking up to 10,000 steps per day can significantly improve overall health, reducing the risk of mortality, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Recognizing the potential of this age-old activity, I decided to put it to the test and compared it to other fitness regimes by walking 10,000 steps per day instead of hitting the gym for a week.

Incorporating 10,000 steps into daily routines may require some adjustments, but it is generally achievable and flexible, depending on individual circumstances. Unlike other exercise routines, walking requires minimal administration, making it convenient and accessible for individuals with busy schedules or limited resources.

While I cannot make definitive claims about the specific health benefits of walking, I observed positive effects on my mood, productivity, and mental health throughout the week. Walking also emerged as an excellent starting point for those who are inactive or unfit, as well as for older or less mobile individuals seeking to improve their overall well-being.

To further enhance fitness levels, experts recommend increasing the intensity or distance of walks gradually, eventually working up to activities like jogging or other exercises. This allows individuals to tailor their fitness journey according to their specific needs, capabilities, and goals.

As we enter the new year, it’s worth considering the simplicity and effectiveness of walking as a viable alternative to intense exercise routines. While the 10,000-step goal may have been arbitrary in its origin, it continues to garner support from both fitness experts and scientific research. So, let’s put on our walking shoes and take a step towards a healthier future.