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Why a daily walk is one of the best things for your heart

How many steps you really need, how fast to go, and how to make walking a habit that lasts.

Published Updated 5 min read

In this article
  1. 01How much is enough?
  2. 02Make it stick

Walking is free, low-impact and suits almost everyone. Regular brisk walking is linked with lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol and a lower risk of heart disease.

How much is enough?

Most guidelines suggest at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, roughly 30 minutes on five days. Research suggests benefits keep rising up to around 7,000 to 10,000 steps a day, but every extra step counts.

Make it stick

  • Attach walks to something you already do, like after lunch.
  • Walk with a friend or a podcast.
  • Aim for a pace where you can talk but not sing.
  • Track your steps to see progress.

Sources

  1. [1]World Health Organization: Physical activity(opens in a new tab)
Portrait of Dr. Rohan Mehta

About the author

Dr. Rohan Mehta

Cardiologist · MD, FRCPC · 12 years' experience

Dr. Mehta is a cardiologist focused on preventing heart disease before it starts. He combines remote monitoring data with practical lifestyle plans, helping patients manage blood pressure, cholesterol and heart rhythm conditions with confidence.

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