Well, it all started in Japan many, many years ago…

The recommended 10,000 steps a day originated in Japan in the early 1960s. Japanese researchers led by Dr Yoshiro Hatano determined the average person took 3,500 to 5,000 steps per day, and that if they were to increase their steps to 10,000 steps per day, the result would be healthier, thinner people!

Dr. Hatano’s calculations also showed that we should walk 10,000 steps a day to burn about 20% of our caloric intake through activity.

It took a couple more decades for the modern pedometer and Dr Yoshiro Hatano’s research of 10,000 steps to reach a wider audience, such as America, even though millions of Japanese had been using this amazingly simple but highly effective motivational tool for many years prior. With obesity steadily climbing due to inactivity and high consumptions of fast foods, it wasn’t until the early 90s that researchers and the consumer market turned to the humble pedometer and Dr Hatanos’ 10,000 step research to try to increase activity levels of the ever-growing inactive population.

Today, the World Health Organisation (WHO), US Centre for Disease Control, US Surgeon General, American Heart Foundation, US Department of Health & Human Services, and the National Heart Foundation of Australia all recommend individuals take 10,000 steps a day to improve their health and reduce the risk of disease.

10,000 steps a day is a realistic goal that is achievable by people of all shapes, sizes and ages. So don’t be afraid to get out there TODAY and start counting your steps however few, it only takes your first step, followed closely by your second then your third and so on.  Before you know it, you will see that magic 10,000 steps on your pedometer.

I know you can do it and your trusty pedometer will be with you every step of the way!

I would love you to share with us when you do reach your 10,000 step goal OR even your journey towards it. We have a great Facebook page which is the best  place to shout about your step milestones as you will  be inspiring others to ‘step up to the challenge’ too!

Happy Stepping!