Maintaining fitness is often associated with staying active, and one of the simplest ways to track daily activity is by counting steps. But how many steps per day do you need to maintain good health and fitness? The answer can vary depending on age and sex.
General Recommendations
For most adults, the widely recognized goal is 10,000 steps per day, which equates to approximately 5 miles or 8 kilometers. This number isn’t arbitrary; it’s based on research. For general fitness, most adults should aim for 8,000-10,000 steps per day. However, the number of steps a person walks on average will depend on a person’s age, current fitness level, and health goals. This recommendation comes from a 2022 meta-analysis of 15 studies.
Regular activity, including walking, offers several health benefits, including a reduced risk of:
- heart disease
- stroke
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- metabolic syndrome
- obesity
- depression
- certain cancers, including breast and colon cancer
Age-Specific Guidelines
- Children and Teenagers (6-17 years): Young people are generally more active, and it’s recommended that they aim for 12,000 to 15,000 steps per day. This higher number supports their rapid growth and development.
- Adults (18-64 years): For most adults, the 10,000 steps per day target is appropriate. However, if you’re just starting, even 7,000 to 8,000 steps can be beneficial, gradually working up to the 10,000 mark.
- Older Adults (65+ years): As people age, maintaining mobility and independence becomes key. Older adults should aim for 7,000 to 9,000 steps per day, adjusting based on their fitness level and any existing health conditions.
Considering Sex
- Men: On average, men tend to have a higher muscle mass and may require more physical activity to maintain fitness. However, the standard 10,000 steps is a good baseline for most men, with those in physically demanding jobs often exceeding this number.
- Women: Women generally require fewer calories than men, which might lead to slightly lower step goals. However, the 10,000 steps per day target remains effective for maintaining overall fitness. Women, particularly those post-menopause, should focus on consistent daily activity to manage weight and maintain bone density.
To measure up
10,000 steps per day is still a good goal to work toward to ensure you’re getting enough but chances are this doesn’t apply to every step you take throughout your day. Just make sure a portion of those involve walking at a faster pace.
The following tips may help you to add more steps to your day-to-day effort:
- Don’t use the elevator, take the stairs instead.
- Park farther away from the door when running errands.
- Walk with a friend. (You can make a team for everyday walking)
- Clean your house by yourself.
- Take a walk during breaks at work.
- Walk in the mall when the weather’s poor.
Conclusion
While the 10,000 steps per day target is a useful benchmark, it’s important to remember that any amount of movement is better than none. Tailoring your step count to your age, sex, and personal health goals can lead to better overall fitness and well-being. Whether you’re just starting or looking to maintain an active lifestyle, finding a step goal that fits your life is key to long-term success.