A new study is turning heads with its revelation that taking just 1,000 more steps daily can potentially lighten the cloud of depression. While the classic advice has always been to aim for 10,000 steps, the research suggests that even reaching 7,000 steps can improve mental well-being.
Published in the journal JAMA Network Open, the study associates a higher daily step count with fewer symptoms of depression. This meta-analysis reviewed 33 studies involving over 96,000 adults, leading to intriguing findings about the link between physical activity and mental health.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Bruno Bizzozero-Peroni from the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Spain, emphasizes that encouraging any form of physical activity can be a strategic move against depression. Though Dr. Karmel Choi of Harvard Medical School, not involved in the study, notes people often hear about the 10,000-step goal, she highlights that even an increase to 7,000 can benefit mental health.
Moreover, Dr. Brendon Stubbs from King’s College London notes that adding as little as 1,000 steps daily can reduce future depression risk by 9%. He indicates that while the research is promising, it mostly involves general populations and not those with clinical depression, signaling a need for further studies.
While there are acknowledged gaps that call for more research, experts like Choi reinforce that physical activity is consistently beneficial for mental health. Steps act as a proxy for movement types like walking, although they may miss activities such as yoga. Adjusting physical activity goals to what motivates individuals could be key for better mental wellness.
Motivation often remains a challenge, exacerbated by depression. Dr. Michael Noetel from the University of Queensland shares insights that just setting goals and tracking might not suffice. Instead, established methods of support and accountability, like joining a fitness group or working out with friends, might offer better results.
Noetel advises making exercises enjoyable, such as by listening to audiobooks during walks, to increase adherence to fitness regimes. It’s about making these activities pleasant and maintaining the momentum necessary for ongoing success.
While more research is needed, the evidence supports increasing daily steps as part of a proactive approach to mental health. Even incremental changes may provide protective benefits against depression.
Source: Yahoo
