Well, you aren’t the only one! That 10,000 steps goal that was set years ago was based on…well, absolutely nothing! It didn’t have any scientific basis. Sure, people who walk 10,000 steps a day are generally healthy individuals, but new research sets the bar at something much more achievable: 4,400 steps each day.

Walking more than 4,400 steps helped lower the risk of all-cause mortality even further, but the benefits leveled off when walkers logged 7,500 steps. In other words, more steps did not equal better outcomes.

If 10,000 seems like a stretch, start by getting a simple pedometer and tracking your steps over a week or two. Then, aim to add a bit to your average. For example, if you’re averaging 2,700 steps a day, try to increase it to 2,800, then to 2,900. Incremental changes are easier to manage than simply trying to jump to 10,000 (again, a totally arbitrary number) steps each day, which would be unrealistic and just leave your psychologically feeling like a failure. Take it slow, and if you aren’t getting 4,400 steps a day, try to reach that goal. Let friends, family, or GHD know how you’re doing too. Accountability is important.

Happy trails!