### Do You Really Need 10,000 Steps a Day? A recent study has challenged the long-held belief that you need to walk 10,000 steps daily to lower the risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular diseases. Instead, the study found that walking at least 8,000 steps 1 to 2 days per week can significantly reduce these risks. This is good news for those who find it difficult to reach the 10,000-step goal. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 3,100 people and followed their health outcomes over a decade. The findings suggest that the benefits of walking plateau after reaching around 8,000 steps. Dr. Karla Robinson, a medical editor at GoodRx, also supports this view. She points out that even walking 4,400 steps daily can offer significant health benefits, especially for older adults. The key takeaway is that any amount of walking is beneficial. If you enjoy aiming for 10,000 steps, there's no need to stop. However, if you find it challenging, aiming for around 8,000 steps is a great goal. Dr. Renee Deehan from InsideTracker agrees, emphasizing the importance of making movement a habit. Even small changes, like taking the stairs or walking during breaks, can add up over time. For those wondering about the intensity of walking, a pace of 3 to 4 miles per hour is ideal, but even a leisurely stroll can help. Walking can lower blood pressure, improve blood sugar levels, and promote heart health. The study also found that for people over 60, the benefits plateau at around 6,000 steps per day. Dr. Robinson advises customizing fitness plans based on individual health needs. Consistency is key, and any amount of walking can contribute to better health.###