8,500 Steps May Be Enough for Weight Loss, New Study Finds

For years, walking 10,000 steps a day has been seen as the best way to stay healthy and control weight. But new research suggests that far fewer steps could still bring real benefits. A study presented at the European Congress on Obesity now challenges the long-held belief about this daily target. The research was led by Professor Marwan El Ghoch from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy. His team, working with colleagues in Lebanon, tracked how step counts affected weight loss and maintenance. Their findings were later published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Participants who walked an average of 8,454 steps a day lost around 4.39% of their body weight. Those who kept up around 8,241 steps managed to maintain most of their weight loss over time. The results suggest that 8,500 steps—not 10,000—could be enough to help dieters stay on track. The study adds to growing evidence that the health perks of walking start well before reaching the 10,000-step mark. While the classic target remains popular, scientists now argue that smaller increases in daily movement can still make a difference.

The findings indicate that walking roughly 8,500 steps a day may help people keep weight off after dieting. This lower threshold could make physical activity goals more achievable for many. The research was shared at a major obesity conference and published in a peer-reviewed journal.