Consumer Reports: Track your 10,000 steps to health
SEATTLE — Walking has powerful health benefits. It can protect you against heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even cancer. And according to a new study, your risk of premature death decreases as your daily step count increases.
If 10,000 steps a day sounds like too lofty a goal, take heart. People who walk less may still see big health benefits.
“High step counts have been associated with a lower risk for sleep apnea, reflux, and depression, but even a 15-minute stroll can improve mood, reduce stress, and help you sleep better," explained Catherine Roberts with Consumer Reports.
Generally, experts say the more you walk, the more benefits you’ll get.
Need some motivation?
A fitness tracker or smartwatch could help you reach your goals.
Consumer Reports tested both types of gadgets to count your steps, check your heart rate and track your sleep. After tests, Consumer Reports recommends the Fitbit Inspire 3 and the Apple Watch SE.
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“Remember there’s really no single magic number of steps,” Roberts said. “Any amount of walking that gets you up and out of your chair is a ‘step’ in the right direction.”
To figure out your step goal, start by quantifying how many steps you get in a typical week, then increase your daily average by 500. Once you can hit that new number regularly for a week, add another 500 steps.
Ready to get started? Consumer Reports shared some tips to help:
- Wear good fitting shoes and bright colors.
- Walk with good posture.
- If you have balance issues, consider using walking poles.
- If you need music or a podcast to stay motivated, make sure you’re still aware of your environment to keep you safe and let you enjoy the journey.
As with most aspects of living a long, higher-quality life with overall wellness, staying fit may help reduce brain disease risk to help maintain cognitive strength.
So, walking now will keep you walking for years to come.