This Is How Many Steps You Should Actually Be Getting In Per Day

The Health Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the simplest yet most beneficial forms of exercise. Getting in enough steps each day can help reduce your risk for chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It can also boost your mood, energy levels, and overall health.

How Many Steps Per Day Do Experts Recommend?

Most experts recommend getting in at least 7,000-8,000 steps per day for optimal health benefits. The ultimate goal is at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity activity, which brisk walking can provide.

Benefits of Reaching Daily Step Goals

Lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other chronic conditions
Healthier body weight and body composition
Improved cardiovascular fitness
Better blood sugar control
Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression

Tips for Increasing Your Daily Steps

If you are currently not getting in 7,000+ steps per day, there are many ways to work up to this goal safely and progressively:

Take regular short walks breaks during your workday
Choose further parking spots and take stairs whenever you can
Schedule a daily 20-30 minute walk
Go for walks outdoors or use a treadmill for cardio sessions
Enlist a friend or family member to walk with you for motivation

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a “step” on my fitness tracker?

A step generally involves lifting your leg and moving it forward as part of regular walking motion. Steps are counted by fitness trackers using internal accelerometers.

How accurate are fitness trackers for counting steps?

Most fitness trackers are 80-95% accurate in lab testing conditions. Accuracy can vary in daily life based on tracker placement, type of movement, etc. Focus more on trends vs. exact numbers.

Can other activities like hiking or dancing count toward my step goal?

Absolutely! Any moderate to vigorous upright activity involving walking motions can contribute toward your daily steps goal and health benefits.

Can I get in too many steps per day or overdo my walking routine?

For most people, getting up to 15,000 steps is still safe if built up gradually. Listen to warning signs from your body and adjust your routine if needed to prevent injury.

What if I can’t reach 7-8,000 steps per day due to health issues?

Consult your doctor, but any amount of walking is better than none at all. Do what you can each day within safe limits for your condition. Every little bit helps!