Walking 7,000 to 10,000 steps daily or engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week both reduce the risk of heart disease and mortality.
According to a medical study conducted in the United States, it’s up to you whether you prefer exercising or making walking a habit both are equally beneficial for health.
Data from 15,000 healthy women aged 62 or older was analyzed in this study conducted at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
These women were surveyed annually from 2011 to 2015 to monitor their health status. Their health was then assessed until 2022.
Researchers found that both exercise and walking resulted in improved health outcomes and reduced risk of heart disease or mortality.
Women who were more physically active experienced a 30% to 40% lower risk of heart disease or mortality.
The study revealed that both the number of steps taken and the minutes of exercise had approximately similar effects on health.
Researchers emphasized that this was an observational study and further research is needed to confirm these results.
They noted that all forms of physical activity are beneficial for health. So, whether you walk more or exercise for a specific duration each week, you can still potentially avoid various diseases.
The findings of this research were published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
