walking just 1,000 more each day could help reduce your risk of death by 15 per cent, according to a GP.
Recent research found that less than 5,000 steps can improve your health. However, when it comes to how many steps you should take each day to stay fit and healthy, the information out there can be a bit confusing and contradictory.
To provide charity, travel experts at Accor collaborated with Dr Hana Patelan NHS GP and forensic pathologist, to provide expert insight into the mental and physical benefits of walking – including the optimal number of steps.
The mental benefits of walking
Like an NHS General practitioner with specialist interests in mental health, Dr Hana Patel explains: “Being active can improve self-concept and self-esteem, mood and sleep quality, while reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue.”
The expert added that walking offers neurological benefits including: “Reduced risk of dementia and mental health outcomes such as reduced depressive symptoms.”
Physical benefits of walking
Regular walking can help many people reduce their risk of developing cancer, according to Dr. Patel. These include the risk of breast, colon, bladder, endometrial, esophageal, kidney, lung, and stomach cancer.
The doctor went on to explain the metabolic health benefits of walking, with low-intensity exercise also helping to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as helping to maintain a healthy weight while aiding in weight loss.
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Reduced risk of disease
There are more than just physical benefits associated with walking, with activity linked to longer life expectancy.
The doctor added: “Studies have shown that an increase of 1,000 steps per day is associated with a 15 percent reduction in the risk of dying from any cause, and an increase of 500 steps per day is associated with a seven percent reduction in dying from cardiovascular disease.”
The average number of steps to be taken in one day
To get the optimal benefit from walking, Dr. Patel urges people to aim for 10,000 steps a day to reach the current recommended activity goal, which equates to 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
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