7,000 Steps a Day May Offer Significant Health Benefits, Study Finds

7,000 Steps a Day May Offer Significant Health Benefits, Study Finds
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Walking 7,000 steps a day may be enough to improve brain function and reduce the risk of major illnesses such as cancer, dementia, and heart disease, according to a global study published in The Lancet Public Health.

The research, which analyzed data from over 160,000 adults, suggests that 7,000 steps could be a more achievable and evidence-based target than the commonly cited 10,000-step goal—originally popularized by a 1960s Japanese marketing campaign.

Lead researcher Dr. Melody Ding emphasized that health benefits begin to emerge around 4,000 steps daily, with noticeable advantages leveling off beyond 7,000 for most conditions, though further walking still supports heart health.

Experts say step counting can be a practical tool for promoting physical activity, but it should complement other forms of exercise and accommodate those with physical limitations. They stress that overall movement, not step targets alone, is what truly matters.