Effects of a 10,000 Steps per Day Goal in Overweight Adults

Abstract

Purpose. This study was designed (1) to examine the effects of a 10,000 steps·d−1 exercise prescription on sedentary, overweight/obese adults, and (2) to examine the effects of adherence on body composition and cardiovascular risk factors. Methods. Fifty-six overweight/obese adults participated in the study. Body composition and cardiovascular risk factors were determined at baseline, 20 weeks, and 36 weeks. Adherence was defined as averaging ≥ 9500 steps·d−1 from week 4 to week 36. Results. 38 participants (68%) wore pedometers daily for 36 weeks and were available for posttesting. Significant improvements were noted in mean values for walking volume (3994 steps·d−1), body weight (–2.4 kg), body mass index (–0.8 kg·m−2), percentage body fat (–1.9%), fat mass (–2.7 kg), waist circumference (–1.8 cm), hip circumference (–1.9 cm) and high-density lipoprotein (3 mg/dl). The adherers had large improvements in body composition measures, whereas the nonadherers showed little or no change in these variables. Discussion. A 10,000 steps·d−1 exercise prescription resulted in weight loss over 36 weeks in previously sedentary, overweight/obese adults. Adherence to the step goal had a marked effect on the outcome.