Scientists have found a precise daily step count that can help reduce depression risk. Contrary to popular myth, taking 10,000 steps may not be enough to improve mood. Instead, research suggests that aiming for around 7,500 steps per day can significantly lower the risk of low mood.
A review of 33 studies involving almost 100,000 adults using fitness trackers revealed a positive correlation between higher step counts and better mental health. Notably, those who achieved 7,500 steps had a 42% reduced risk of depression.
While benefits were seen up to a step count of 10,000, there was no additional advantage beyond that point. Experts recommend that older adults or those with limiting conditions may need fewer steps to reap the same benefits.
Lindsay Bottoms, an exercise and health physiology researcher, notes that obsessively aiming for 10,000 steps can lead people to underestimate the importance of physical activity in maintaining good mental health. She advocates for more achievable goals, such as 4,400 steps per day, which has been shown to improve life expectancy.
The origins of the 10,000-step goal are rooted in a Japanese marketing campaign from the 1960s. While this target may have sparked interest in physical activity, it was never grounded in scientific evidence. Instead, the number was chosen for its memorability.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14198251/Experts-pinpoint-precise-number-daily-steps-need-beat-depression-spoiler-alert-NOT-10-000.html