8,500 daily steps may be the secret to keeping weight off after dieting

A new study suggests that walking 8,500 steps a day helps people keep weight off after dieting. The research, presented at the European Congress on Obesity, challenges the long-held belief that 10,000 steps are needed for health benefits. Scientists now argue that fewer steps can still make a real difference. The study, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, tracked 3,758 participants in lifestyle modification programs. During weight loss, they increased their daily steps to an average of 8,454. While more walking did not speed up fat loss, it played a key role in preventing weight regain.

The 10,000-step target first appeared in a 1960s Japanese marketing campaign for a pedometer. It was never based on strong scientific proof. Recent evidence now shows that benefits start well below this number. By the end of the trials, participants maintained an average weight loss of 3.28%—about 3kg (6.6lbs). Researchers concluded that 8,500 steps daily is an affordable and simple way to sustain weight loss after dieting.

The findings offer a more achievable goal for those looking to stay slim after shedding pounds. Instead of aiming for 10,000 steps, 8,500 may be enough to prevent regained weight. This adjustment could make long-term weight management easier for many people.