Dr. Zaslow weighs in on the Steps vs. Time study.
Article Link: Is it better to measure exercise in minutes or steps? (medicalnewstoday.com)
In the new study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, the researchers said physical activity reduces the risk of acquiring chronic illness and infection as well as promoting longevity.
Current U.S. guidelines, which haven’t been updated since 2018 (and scheduled to be updated in 2028), say adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like jogging) per week.
The authors pointed out most of the existing evidence regarding health benefits of exercise came from studies in which participants self-reported physical activity. Few data points existed regarding the relationship between health and steps.
- Researchers say choosing a way to measure progress on exercise should align with personal preferences.
- They report that people who exercise the most live the longest and have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
- They say counting steps or counting time both have advantages and downsides.
While everyone knows that exercising regularly is important for a healthy life, some previous studies have shown that intense exercise may have the opposite effect.
A new study, recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that people who participate in extreme exercise may live longer.
Researchers tracked a select group of elite runners capable of running a sub-4-minute mile and found they may live five years longer on average than the general population.
Dr. Tracy Zaslow, a primary care sports medicine specialist at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles and a team physician for Angel City Football Club and MLS team LA Galaxy, told Medical News Today the study helps translate the previous minutes of activity goals into steps-based goals.
“The study is limited as the researchers only looked at women over 60,” said Zaslow, who was not involved in the research. “Further studies of broader populations would be beneficial. But I think it’s information that can be used to further encourage physical activity and an active lifestyle, especially for the study population of women over 60 years old.”
Zaslow said people should always check with their doctor before starting an exercise program. Then start slowly with walking and gradually increase activity.
“Baby steps tend to be more effective than attempting long/hard workouts until you’ve built strength and stamina,” Zaslow said. “Start with just a few minutes and advance as tolerated.”
Zaslow also advised keeping it fun.
“Find a workout buddy to help maintain motivation. Create a family challenge to encourage everyone to move more. Incorporate activity into daily life: Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park so you are forced to walk a bit to your destination,” she said.
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