7,000 Steps Are Enough: New Evidence Redefines Daily Activity

A 2025 Lancet Public Health review of ~160,000 adults finds 7,000 daily steps significantly lowers risks of heart disease, dementia, cancer, type 2 diabetes, depression and premature death, with gains tapering after 7,000. The 10,000-step target originated in a 1960s Japanese marketing campaign for the Manpo-kei, not solid science; wearables help people hit daily goals by gamifying the habit, but consistency, reducing sedentary time, brisk walking, and regular strength training are key to long-term health.