Key points from article :
New study shows fewer than 5000 steps may be enough to stay fit and healthy.
Analysis on 226,000 people showed 4000 steps was enough to reduce the risk of dying prematurely of any cause.
Just over 2300 steps is enough to benefit the heart and blood vessels.
Every extra 1000 steps beyond the 4000 reduced the risk of dying early by 15% up to 20,000 steps.
Walking benefits applied to all genders and ages; the biggest benefits were seen among the under-60s.
Sitting down too much can slow your metabolism and affect muscle growth and strength, which can cause aches and pains.
Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (Neat) is everything we do that uses energy and burns calories.
Small tasks like standing, carrying shopping, washing the floors, hoovering, pacing whilst talking on the phone make us more active that help us to burn calories more efficiently.
Walking can lower blood pressure, increase energy levels as well as giving endorphins and it can help maintain a healthy weight.
Other benefits include boosts to your mental health and important time away from screens and other distractions.
Walking is suitable for almost anybody because it is low impact and easy on joints and muscles.
Research led by Maciej Banach from Medical University of Lodz, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.
