Health First Pro-Health & Fitness Trainer Offers 5 Things You Need to Know about Daily Step Counts

how many steps do we really need every day for optimal health? 

As we usher in 2026, it turns out the 10,000-per-day standard goal is a myth. A personal trainer shares how much foot traffic you really need each day for optimal health. 

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – New Year, new you. That’s a common theme throughout the years – and remains true in 2026.

As many of us are pumped to get on a healthier path in the New Year, it begs the question – how many steps do we really need every day for optimal health? 

We picked the brain of Kathleen Jaromin, a seasoned personal trainer with Health First Pro-Health & Fitness. Here’s what she said about putting your literal best foot forward. 

1. The 10,000 steps rule is a myth — but movement still matters.

Jaromin has heard it plenty – 10,000 steps a day is the “gold standard” for health. Its origins, however, don’t come from fitness or health experts. This number was borne from a 1960s-era marketing campaign for pedometers in Japan around the time of the Tokyo Olympics, Jaromin said. But it was catchy and became an attainable goal for many.

“People like having a number to aim for, but what matters most is simply moving more than you did yesterday,” Jaromin explained.

Recent research shows that even 6,000 to 7,000 steps a day can offer significant health benefits, especially for people who tend to be sedentary. The real goal? Avoiding long periods of sitting and finding ways to move throughout your day.

2. Personalize Your Step Goal

There’s no one-size-fits-all target. 

“Be honest with yourself — what can you realistically do most weeks?” Jaromin advised. “If you aim for three days of movement and do more, that’s a bonus. Consistency is key, not perfection.” 

Jaromin encourages clients to set goals that fit their lifestyle, and to celebrate progress – and not scold themselves when they fall short.

“Life happens,” Jaromin said. “If you set a goal of five days but only make it three, you’re still moving forward.”

3. Short walks add up. 

Pressed for time? You don’t need to carve out an hour for a single long walk. 

“Short walks throughout the day are great, especially if you’re just starting out or have health concerns,” Jaromin said. 

Even brief strolls can help break up sedentary time, boost your mood and improve circulation. For those looking to build endurance or cardiovascular health, longer, brisk walks are ideal — but every step counts.

4. Combine walking with strength training.

Walking is an excellent, simple way to keep your cardiovascular health in check, in addition to relieving stress. But it’s just a part of the equation. 

“The best exercise regimen includes both walking and strength training,” Jaromin said. 

Strength training improves bone density and muscle mass, which are crucial as we age. 

“Don’t just walk—find ways to build strength, too. This combination supports long-term health, mobility and independence.”

5. Track progress — but always listen to your body.

Fitness trackers and apps can be motivating, but Jaromin cautions against letting them dictate your self-worth. 

“Go by how you feel — your breathing, your heart rate, your energy,” she advised. “Trackers are tools, not the final word. Focus on your goals and celebrate your progress.” 

If you’re not seeing instant results, remember that meaningful change takes time and consistency. The best measure of success is how you feel – not just the numbers on your scale or smartwatch.

Bottom line: There’s no magic number when it comes to steps. Think simple – set attainable, realistic goals, move more and just figure out what works for you. 

“Any movement is better than none,” Jaromin said. “Celebrate your progress, stay consistent and adjust your goals as life changes. The most important thing is to keep moving forward — one step at a time.”

5 simple ways to score more daily steps. 

■ Park farther away from entrances.
■ Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
■ Walk during phone calls or meetings.
■ Set a timer to stand up and move every hour.
■ Invite a friend or family member for a daily walk.

The post Health First Pro-Health & Fitness Trainer Offers 5 Things You Need to Know about Daily Step Counts appeared first on Space Coast Daily.