A doctor explained why "10,000 steps a day" is a myth

      According to the specialist, the popular "10,000 steps" guideline has no scientific basis — it appeared as a marketing move in Japan in the 1960s with the launch of the first pedometer, the manpo-kei ("10,000-step meter"). Modern studies, Gurin notes, provide more precise recommendations: for heart and metabolic health, 7,000–8,000 steps a day are sufficient — this is the so-called "gold standard"; around 4,000 steps a day already noticeably reduce the risk of premature death compared with a sedentary lifestyle. "It's not just the number but the pace. Half an hour of brisk walking, when you're a little out of breath but can still talk, provides more benefit than slow 10,000 steps," the doctor emphasized. At the same time, he said, excessive load can be harmful. This is especially true for people with osteoarthritis, flat feet, joint inflammations and serious heart conditions — they need to tailor their regimen under a specialist's supervision. Gurin also noted that gait is an important diagnostic sign. For example, a "waddling" gait can indicate problems with the hip joints, while a shuffling gait can indicate Parkinson's disease. Moreover, studies show that a slowing walking pace in older adults can signal a decline in the body's vital reserves and an increased risk of mortality. "Don't fixate on magic numbers. What's important is just to move — at least 4,000 steps a day. That's already a step toward longevity," the specialist concluded.