Scientists have determined how many steps per day extend life by 6 years

Medical experts from the Mayo Clinic emphasize the numerous beneficial effects of walking for the human body. Regular walking helps strengthen the cardiovascular system, improves cognitive functions and memory, normalizes sleep, enhances balance and coordination. Additionally, walking effectively strengthens bone and muscle tissue, increases endurance and energy potential of the body, positively affects emotional state and significantly reduces stress levels.

A revolutionary study, the results of which were published in the authoritative British Journal of Sports Medicine, demonstrates that regular walking can significantly increase life expectancy. However, there are important conditions for achieving maximum effect: it is necessary to dedicate 160 minutes daily to walking at an average speed of about 5 km/h. This particular regimen provides the most significant extension of the life cycle.

As part of the new study, the scientific team analyzed an extensive data set from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Researchers focused on participants over 40 years old who used special activity monitors for at least four days.

The results of the analysis were impressive: the 25% most physically active study participants took daily walks lasting 160 minutes at an average speed of 4.8 km/h. Scientists found that if all subjects adhered to such an activity regimen, their average life expectancy could increase from 78.6 to 84 years. In contrast, participants from the group of 25% least active people reduced their potential life expectancy by approximately 6 years.