Is it appropriate for everyone to walk 10,000 steps a day?

The idea that everyone should walk 10,000 steps every day has become popular, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Experts caution against jumping into such a regimen without proper preparation, especially for those who are obese or have existing joint issues. ### Key Points to Consider 1. **Individual Health Conditions**: - **Obesity and Joint Pain**: Walking 10,000 steps can exacerbate issues in people who are obese or suffer from knee pain. Dr. Sandhya Lakshmi highlights that for obese individuals, this level of activity can lead to strain and pain because their joints, muscles, and tendons are not yet prepared for such a load. - **Muscle and Joint Strength**: Dr. Anup Khatri emphasizes the need for strength and conditioning training before starting a high-step regimen. Without it, the risk of overuse injuries and long-term musculoskeletal problems increases. 2. **Proper Preparation**: - **Gradual Increase in Activity**: Instead of starting with 10,000 ste