In today's fast-paced world, finding effective ways to enhance personal health and longevity can seem daunting, but Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum has a simple prescription: walking.
Preventative cardiologist Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum has advocated walking as a feasible and substantial method to stave off heart disease and prolong life, Insider reported.
Dr. Steinbaum, a renowned preventative cardiologist who partners with Bayer Aspirin, has repeatedly emphasized the pivotal role of walking in maintaining heart health and overall well-being. Her arguments are backed by years of research and clinical experience, suggesting that integrating walking into daily routines is not only possible but also beneficial.
Walking is more than just a physical activity; according to Dr. Steinbaum, it is a cornerstone of heart health. The act itself is simple yet effective in preventing various illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading causes of death globally.
She notes that for many people, the challenge of assimilating a rigorous fitness regime into their daily schedule can be daunting. However, walking is a versatile option that accommodates various fitness levels and lifestyles, making it an inclusive practice.
Engaging in just 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, as recommended by health authorities like the CDC and American Heart Association, can be largely achieved through regular walking, Dr. Steinbaum advises. This aligns walking not only as a leisure activity but as a health imperative.
Encouraging the public to start small, Dr. Steinbaum advises beginning with manageable distances like a few blocks. This approach fosters a sense of achievement and lessens frustrations, allowing for consistent progression in physical activity.
Recent studies bolster her advocacy, revealing that a daily step count of 2,300 to 4,000 significantly reduces the risks associated with heart disease and premature death. She points out that even incremental increases — such as adding 500 to 1,000 steps — can further diminish these risks.
For older adults, particularly those over 60, she recommends maintaining a daily target of 6,000 to 10,000 steps, tailored to their health status and capabilities.
The effectiveness of walking largely depends on the intensity and dedication of the individual. Dr. Steinbaum highlights that walking should be conducted at a moderate intensity to achieve optimal health benefits.
Moreover, establishing a routine is crucial. She notes, "The slower you start, the less frustrated you will feel and the faster you will progress. The key is routine and regularity. Just do a little bit every single day." This philosophy underscores the importance of consistency in reaping the full benefits of walking.
The cardiologist also finds the exercise invigorating and enjoyable, which helps in making it an integral part of her daily routine without feeling like a chore.
Beyond individual efforts, Dr. Steinbaum points to the social aspects of walking that can further enhance motivation and health outcomes. She praises initiatives like the TikTok 50-mile monthly walking challenge, which encourages participants to walk 3,500 steps daily.
"This TikTok trend was a wonderful way to get people moving, and to encourage people to walk 3,500 steps a day, for 50 miles a month, captured exactly what we need to do for overall heart health," she explains. The challenge not only promotes physical health but also fosters a community of health-conscious individuals.
Participating in such social walking events and challenges adds an element of fun and competitiveness that can significantly amplify the motivation to keep moving.
Dr. Steinbaum firmly believes in the power of routine to transform wellness. By starting with accessible activities like walking, individuals can gradually build a foundation for more intensive exercises.
"Exercise is the best medication," she proclaims, reiterating that physical activity is crucial to preventing diseases and enhancing quality of life. Her endorsement of walking encapsulates a broader vision of accessible health practices for all, irrespective of age or fitness level.
By promoting walking as a fundamental exercise, Dr. Steinbaum not only champions physical health but also encourages a lifelong journey towards wellness, rooted in simple, everyday actions that make significant differences.
