Walking is an economical exercise option, available for people of all ages and abilities. However, are the 10,000 daily steps recommended by fitness apps really the minimum needed to reap the benefits of this habit?

Dr. Francisco Lopez Jimenez, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, explains that there is no magic number of steps people can reach each day, it’s just different. The most important thing, he continues, is that people move.

“Walking is perhaps the easiest, most effective, and most accessible type of human physical activity,” explains Dr. Lopez Jimenez.

How many steps should we take daily? It depends.

He explains: “For a person between 25 and 30 years old, walking 6,000 steps a day may be a very low number, but for an 85-year-old, walking 5,000 steps is a very good number.”

The important thing is to make walking part of your daily routine. Use the stairs, walk your dog, or leave your car a little further from the store entrance.

“People should walk every day, even for a few minutes at a time, and it could be just 15 or 20 minutes,” explains Dr. Lopez Jimenez.

Try stepping away from the table and going for a walk. This is good for the head and heart.

“Walking has many benefits for our overall health, not just cardiovascular, but also our mental health,” he explains.

Tips for adding steps to your daily routine

• Take the dog for a walk or find a hiking buddy.
• Go to the mall.
• Invite loved ones.
• Walk while waiting.
• Schedule walking tours during work days.
• Park the car further away.
• Use the stairs.
• Setting personal goals.