2,200 steps that connect you to life

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in the UK has once again highlighted the importance of walking for a healthy life. In the study conducted by academics from the University of Sydney, data obtained from more than 70,000 people around the age of 61 were examined. 

According to the research, every extra step taken beyond 2,200 steps per day reduces the risk of premature death. Even if the rest of the day is spent sedentary, walking up to 10,000 steps every day also helps reduce the risk of heart disease.

Participants in the study were fitted with measuring devices for 7 days to determine their exercise levels. After a 7-year follow-up conducted by experts, 1,633 of the participants passed away, while 6,190 people suffered from cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke.

Researchers concluded that taking between 9,000 and 10,500 steps per day reduces the risk of premature death by 39 percent and the risk of heart attack or stroke by one-fifth. The individuals with the lowest detected risk of stroke and heart attack were in the group that took approximately 9,700 steps per day.

150 MINUTES OF EXERCISE PER WEEK

British Heart Foundation nurse Julie Ward stated, "We know that daily physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy life and helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. These promising new studies show us that every step taken toward the goal of 10,000 steps a day is important in terms of reducing the risk of premature death and heart disease."

Stating that 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is necessary for heart health and blood circulation, Ward added, "These can be any activity that fits your lifestyle, such as regular walking breaks that get you away from your computer screen, going to the gym, attending exercise classes, and getting off the bus one stop early to take more steps."

News Source: İHA