MPV Blog

Since then, researchers have looked into the 10,000-step-per-day target. The fact that some studies have shown that this phase goal improves heart health, mental health, and even diabetes risk may explain why we have stuck with this arbitrary number to some degree.

Distances were measured in ancient Rome by counting measures. In reality, the word “mile” comes from the Latin phrase mila passum, which roughly translates to “1,000 paces.”. It’s estimated that the average person walks about 100 steps per minute, which means that walking a mile will take just under 30 minutes.

To achieve the 10,000 step target, a person will have to walk between four and five miles per day (around two hours of activity).

However, while some research indicates that 10,000 steps a day is beneficial to one’s health, new research from Harvard Medical School suggests that 4,400 steps per day is adequate to substantially reduce the risk of death in women. This was in comparison to just walking 2,700 steps a day.

The lower the risk of death, the more steps people took, until it plateaued at about 7,500 steps a day. With further steps, no additional benefits were observed. While it’s unclear if similar effects can be seen in men, it’s one example of how can everyday movement can improve health and reduce mortality risk.