Walking benefits for weight maintenance and joint health

New research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests that walking approximately 8,500 steps daily can assist in maintaining weight loss over the long term. An analysis of 18 previous studies indicated that participants maintained roughly one percent of their lost weight for every 1,000 daily steps taken.

Walking serves as an accessible, low-impact exercise that promotes joint health by increasing circulation and reducing stiffness. It also helps manage weight, which reduces pressure on joints. While walking is highly accessible and cost-effective, Pilates is noted as a complementary low-impact option that focuses on core strength, posture, and flexibility, which can benefit individuals with arthritis.