The recommended number of steps to take per day varies depending on age, goals, and health conditions, but generally:
- For most healthy adults, aiming for around 7,000 to 10,000 steps per day is considered beneficial for overall health and longevity. Studies show the health benefits increase up to about this range and then plateau.
- Recent research suggests 7,000 steps per day is a more scientifically supported target to significantly reduce the risk of premature death and health issues like heart disease and dementia, making it a reasonable and attainable goal.
- For adults over 60 years old, the recommended daily steps are typically lower, about 6,000 to 8,000 steps per day for health benefits.
- Any increase in steps from a sedentary baseline (less than 2,500 steps per day considered inactive) can provide meaningful health improvements, so starting gradually and increasing step count is encouraged.
In summary, aiming for at least 7,000 steps daily is a well-supported guideline for most adults to maintain and enhance health, with higher numbers offering incremental benefits but not necessarily large additional gains.