I'm often asked by new online personal training clients what the ideal daily step count is for weight loss.
People differ, and therefore ideal step counts do too.
As a general rule of thumb, however, your daily step count shouldn't be below 6/7,000 steps.
If it is, that means you're likely NOT burning off enough energy each day,..
.. and if you're not, and if your calorie intake is HIGHER than the amount of energy you burn (if you eat 2,000kcal but only burn off 1,700kcal, for example),
.. you will gain weight!
Also, if your step count is below 6/7,000 each day, it’s likely to negatively affect your metabolism, and as studies show, can also lead to health issues later down the line.
*So the ideal step count is an amount that will help you fire up your metabolism and burn off MORE calories than you eat each day.*
That could be 7,000 steps for some. For others, it could be 12,000.
So you'll need to experiment.
If at present your step count is low, start aiming for 7,000 each day for 7 days. If your nutrition is in order and you lose weight after a week, that's a great start!
Stick with that until progress stalls (increase if you wish, however).
Each week thereafter,..
.. gradually increase your steps WITHOUT going past the point of sustainability.
(If you can't see yourself consistently hitting 12,000 steps each day, then don't make a huge leap to or make 12,000 daily steps your goal).
Again, gradually increase your steps every week or 2 (by 200 - 500 steps) until you find the sweet spot.
The sweet spot being a step count that keeps you active, improves your health, is sustainable long-term and also helps you make weight loss progress.
Coach Alan
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