Research Reveals Varied Step Counts and Intensities Reduce Mortality Risk
New research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, led by a team from the University of Sydney, indicates that a variety of step counts and intensities are associated with a lower mortality risk. The study analyzed data from over 64,000 middle-aged individuals, tracking them for an average of eight years. Researchers compared daily steps and stepping intensity against all-cause mortality (ACM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality risk. A key finding is that individuals do not necessarily need to achieve 10,000 steps daily to reap health benefits. For instance, a similar and substantial reduction in mortality risk was observed in those walking less than 5,000 steps a day but at a brisk pace (around 80 steps per minute), and those walking between 5,000-7,500 steps a day more slowly (around 60 steps per minute). The study suggests that if time is limited for higher step counts, increasing walking intensity can offer comparable health advantages. Conversely, if brisk walking is not feasibl...
