Science confirms it: Every step counts, and you’re already on the right path
There’s something incredibly motivating about knowing that what you’re already doing is backed by science, and a major new study has just made that very clear.
Recently published in The Lancet Public Health, a global research study led by the University of Sydney looked at step counts from over 200,000 people and found something exciting: walking just 7,000 steps a day is linked to a much lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, depression, dementia, and even early death.
If you’re already part of the Heart Foundation Walking community, this news might come as a quiet nod of reassurance. You’re already doing something incredibly powerful for your health, and now science is catching up.
What stood out in the research wasn’t just the overall benefits of walking, it was the emphasis on small, achievable change. The biggest health boosts were seen when people moved from as little as 2,000 steps per day to 4,000 steps a day, which reduced their risk of death from all causes by a massive 36%. The most benefits came in at 7,000 steps with a 47% reduction.
That’s it. No need to climb mountains or conquer marathons. Just regular walking, the kind you’re probably already doing. For those already doing 10,000 steps per day, keep going. You are achieving a great target and still getting all the health benefits.
So, whether you are walking with a group, on your own, or with a furry friend, the key is consistency. Heart Foundation Walking is designed with this exact approach in mind - small steps taken often, in good company or quiet solitude.
Our walking groups and Personal Walking Plans already reflect what the study is telling the world: regular walking can make a big difference to your health. And because our program is free, inclusive, and community-driven, it also removes some of the biggest barriers to getting started, like cost or simply not knowing where to begin.
If you’re part of our community, take a moment to celebrate. You’ve already taken the first step toward reducing your risk of chronic disease, boosting your mental health, and improving your quality of life.
And if you’ve been thinking about joining or telling someone about our program, there’s never been a better time.
The science is clear. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start, and keep going, one step at a time.
Explore Heart Foundation Walking today at www.heartfoundationwalking.org.au and keep stepping toward a healthier you.
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