A new international study suggests that people may not need to reach the widely promoted 10,000-step target to maintain weight loss. Researchers found that walking around 8,500 steps per day may help prevent weight regain over time.
The findings come as obesity rates continue to rise globally, with experts warning that maintaining weight loss remains one of the biggest challenges in obesity treatment.
Long-term weight maintenance
Researchers reviewed data from multiple clinical trials involving nearly 4,000 participants from different countries. The study examined two stages: the initial weight loss phase and the long-term maintenance phase. Participants in lifestyle programmes increased their daily activity levels from an average of around 7,200 steps to approximately 8,400 steps during weight loss. During the maintenance phase, they sustained roughly 8,200 daily steps while also maintaining much of their weight reduction.
According to the researchers, the evidence supports a practical target of around 8,500 steps per day.
Diet played the biggest role initially
The study found that calorie reduction had the strongest impact during the early stages of weight loss. Walking became more important later, helping participants maintain progress and reduce the likelihood of regaining weight. Researchers noted that each additional 1,000 daily steps during treatment was linked to improved long-term outcomes.
A more realistic target
The researchers stressed that the popular 10,000-step goal was not originally based on scientific evidence but emerged from a Japanese marketing campaign in the 1960s. By contrast, the new figure is based on controlled clinical studies and may be easier for people to achieve consistently.
Experts said realistic and sustainable goals are more likely to support long-term behavioural change.
Obesity remains a growing concern
More than half of adults in Europe are currently living with overweight or obesity, while global projections suggest obesity rates will continue rising over the next decade. Researchers said lifestyle interventions remain the first line of treatment before medication or surgery.
The study was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
