As someone who is 5’4 and weighs 44kg, my BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is apparently only 1,190 calories. I’ve been trying to increase it by walking, but I’m unsure of what it is now considering my activity level. Would you consider 15-20k steps per day light, moderate, or intense exercise?
The original post on Reddit raises an interesting question about the relationship between daily step count and exercise intensity. The person who posted is concerned about their low BMR and is trying to find ways to increase it. They mention their current activity level, specifically walking 15-20,000 steps per day, and are curious about its classification in terms of exercise intensity.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), taking 10,000 steps a day is commonly recommended as a good goal for healthy individuals. The step count mentioned in the post exceeds this recommendation, indicating a high level of physical activity.
Determining the specific exercise intensity level solely based on step count can be challenging because it depends on various factors such as an individual’s fitness level and walking speed. However, if we assume an average step length of around 2.5 feet, walking 15-20,000 steps would roughly equal 7.5-10 miles (12-16 kilometers). This distance suggests a considerable amount of physical activity.
In general, the intensity of exercise can be categorized into three levels: light, moderate, and intense. Light exercise refers to activities that do not significantly increase heart rate or sweating, such as leisurely walking. Moderate exercise involves increased heart rate and noticeable sweating, such as brisk walking or cycling. Intense exercise refers to activities that cause a substantial increase in heart rate and heavy sweating, such as running or high-intensity interval training.
Based on the information provided, it can be inferred that walking 15-20,000 steps per day would classify as moderate exercise. This level of activity could contribute positively to the individual’s overall health, including calorie expenditure and potential weight management efforts. However, it’s important to note that this is a subjective interpretation, and consulting with a healthcare or fitness professional is always recommended for a more accurate assessment.
In conclusion, the original post brings up an interesting question about the exercise intensity associated with walking 15-20,000 steps per day. While it’s challenging to determine the exact intensity solely based on step count, an assumption can be made that this level of activity would classify as moderate exercise. Engaging in regular physical activity, regardless of intensity, is beneficial for overall health and can contribute to achieving weight-related goals.