The NHS is introducing a new rewards programme that will entitle walkers who reach a certain distance each day to special discounts, including paying for their shopping. Instead of the traditional 10,000 steps goal, the programme motivates people to walk for 30 minutes a day. Over a month, this amounts to walking a marathon, hence the name 'Marathon A Day' challenge.
Background and rationale
The 10,000 steps goal was popularised ahead of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, originating from a pedometer marketing campaign, but has since been debunked as a myth. The NHS aims to encourage more realistic and achievable physical activity. According to a 2019 YouGov study, almost half (45%) of UK adults are sedentary for at least six hours each day, while 46% of working adults walk for less than an hour each working day. Furthermore, 28% said they walk 35 minutes a day or less at weekends or on annual leave.
How the programme works
Walkers can log their walks using the NHS website or track them via a phone or smartwatch. Steps will be converted into incentives and discounts, though specific retailers and discounts are yet to be announced. The initiative stems from a partnership between the NHS and Sir Brendan Foster, an Olympic medallist and founder of the Great North Run. It is part of a 10-year plan to boost public health.
Health benefits of walking
Walking has proven benefits, including improving flexibility, boosting the immune system, reducing type 2 diabetes risk, strengthening muscles, improving sleep, and boosting mood. The NHS currently advises 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. Research suggests 7,000 steps daily is a sweet spot for health benefits, more realistic than 10,000 steps, which can take around one hour and forty minutes.
Expert recommendations
Holland & Barrett nutritionist Emily Foster said: 'This can be challenging for some, for example, office workers, and easier for others, such as keen runners, so it's important not to compare too much. Anyone who is living with a medical condition that could affect their level of activity should always check in with a doctor for a tailored recommendation.' For children, the recommended minimum is 6,000 steps a day, but may be higher (around 15,000) with playground games. Adults aged 18-59 should aim for 8,000-10,000 steps daily. After age 60, Foster recommends 6,000-8,000 steps as a minimum, depending on current activity levels.
Similar programmes
Other apps like Sweatcoin, Win Walk, Vitality, and Charity Miles also convert steps into rewards. The NHS programme is unique in its direct partnership with the health service and its focus on 30-minute daily walks.
