An Olympic athlete has highlighted a common error people make when trying to increase their daily step count. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed that nearly half believe the 'ideal' daily step target falls between 8,000 and 11,000 steps. However, sports scientist and former Olympic athlete Professor Greg Whyte OBE argues that this mindset is flawed.
Revised Step Target
The Lancet Public Health recommends a revised target of 7,000 steps per day for adults, a figure known to only 14% of those surveyed. Upon learning this, 45% reported feeling more motivated to walk regularly. The average Briton walks 6,478 steps daily, but 53% fail to meet the widely promoted 10,000-step goal, leading to guilt for 40% of respondents.
Whyte's Advice
Professor Whyte suggests focusing on shorter, manageable bursts of activity throughout the day rather than fixating on an ambitious step count. These can include 'walk and talk' meetings, intermittent bursts of speed during walks, and choosing stairs over lifts or escalators. He emphasizes that consistency is more important than perfection.
According to The Lancet study, 7,000 steps can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 25%, type 2 diabetes by 14%, dementia by 38%, and depressive symptoms by 22%. Whyte partnered with Ordnance Survey to scale Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), encouraging people to become more active outdoors.
Benefits of Outdoor Activity
Whyte noted that time outdoors boosts mental wellbeing, strengthens social connections, and improves physical health. Even simple hill walking acts as natural strength training, especially important with age. He added that people should not feel guilty about their exercise levels, as every movement adds up over the day.
The poll, commissioned by Ordnance Survey, found that 26% of respondents take stairs instead of lifts, 22% do household chores, and 14% park further away to increase step counts. Those who successfully increased their steps reported feeling happier, more energetic, and more in control of their weight.
Nick Giles OBE, managing director of Leisure for Ordnance Survey, described the outdoors as a 'green gym' available to everyone. He stated, 'You don't always need a gym membership or large chunks of time. Even a short walk outdoors can give people a physical and emotional lift.'
