2023-07-23 16:04:59
Ten Thousand Steps Might Not Be Necessary for Optimal Health, Says Expert
In a recent Q&AI session with an artificial intelligence chatbot, the popular belief that walking ten thousand steps a day is essential for good health was challenged. According to the chatbot, this target is nothing more than a smart marketing gimmick. However, Professor of Clinical Neuropsychology Erik Scherder of the VU University in Amsterdam strongly disagrees.
“Absolutely not true,” says Scherder, emphasizing that every step counts. He argues that health benefits can be achieved even with just two thousand steps, and even as few as a thousand steps. Scherder believes that the notion of reaching ten thousand steps is not necessary to reap the rewards.
“The health benefits start very early,” Scherder states firmly. “A better cardiovascular condition and increased insulin sensitivity are associated with walking, which reduces the risk of obesity, overweight, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Those gains begin early and become stronger as you approach ten thousand steps.”
While Scherder acknowledges that ten thousand steps per day may be too ambitious for many individuals, he encourages people to walk as much as possible and highlights the positive health effects that can be achieved with two thousand steps. He calls reaching ten thousand steps a “fantastic” goal for those who can manage it.
Following the coronavirus pandemic, during which people took up walking as a popular pastime, the importance of walking seems to have diminished. Scherder attributes this to the shift towards working from home. He notes, “The Ommetje app, created by the Hersenstichting, was a great success during the pandemic, but its popularity has waned since then. Despite the temporary surge in walking, overall, the pandemic has not brought about significant lifestyle changes.”
In conclusion, while the chatbot suggested that the ten thousand steps target is merely a marketing ploy, Professor Scherder firmly believes that every step counts towards improving one’s health. He urges individuals to strive for as many steps as possible, acknowledging that even smaller increments can yield substantial benefits.]
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