I’ve kicked off this Phylosophy…
…like a stalker, which is not entirely inaccurate, but my intention is really rather benign, friend.
This week I walked my first intentional 10,000 steps. Uphill. Downhill. To the sea. Past folks sipping pricey coffee grounds in painfully chic establishments. On and on I walked, a spring in my gait, a song in my head.
And as I huffed and puffed my way towards the lofty goal, it was only with a mild sense of accomplishment and a huge dose of, far out, am I seriously turning into one of those unbearable power walker types, offering to stroll with you anywhere, anytime, please take me with you, ‘cause ‘I gotta get my steps up, up!’
Sure. Walking is a great weight-bearing exercise. Your heart loves it. Brain does too. But what pedantic schmuck dreamt up these digits? And why must it be a daily thing – bunions be damned!
Well science was never part of the equation. Marketing was. In 1965 a Japanese advertising campaign for a pedometer called, Manpo-kei (which means the 10,000-steps meter) spawned the multi-step phenomenon.
And here’s the kicker. Thousands and thousands and thousands of steps is not the path to thinner thighs, I mean, glowing good health. According to a review published by Harvard Health, your body will reap the benefits around 7,000 steps.
That’s better.
As for my allergy to following the pack up hill and down dale, albeit in sensible footwear…
Well. If you can’t beat ‘em – walk ‘em.
© Phyllis Foundis 2026