Shakti Kapoor opens up about walking 35,000 steps a day

Veteran Bollywood actor Shakti Kapoor, known for his iconic roles in Indian cinema, has revealed a remarkable fitness secret.

In a recent interview on a popular TV show, the 72-year-old actor shared that he walks 35,000 steps a day — a practice he has resumed recently as part of his commitment to health and fitness.

While walking is a common form of exercise with several known benefits, Kapoor’s dedication to walking such an intense amount has raised questions about its impact on the body, particularly for older adults. Let's delve into how walking 35,000 steps a day affects health.

How walking 35,000 steps impacts the body

Walking 35,000 steps a day is roughly equivalent to covering 25 kilometres, depending on an individual’s stride and pace. This level of activity can significantly affect the body, burning an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 calories, depending on factors such as weight and walking intensity.

Walking this much also helps improve cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate, and it enhances lung capacity and strengthens the leg muscles. Additionally, it releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Long walks provide an opportunity for mindfulness, potentially boosting mental clarity and creativity.

However, this intense form of exercise carries risks, especially for older adults. Kapoor, despite his admirable fitness, has engaged in a routine that is not typically recommended for those over 70, as it places significant strain on joints, muscles, and the cardiovascular system.

The risks of overuse injuries for seniors

While moderate walking has been shown to offer numerous health benefits for seniors, including promoting heart health and mobility, excessive walking increases the risk of overuse injuries. For seniors, walking 35,000 steps a day could lead to knee pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and other joint issues.

In addition to physical injuries, long periods of walking without proper hydration or nutrition could result in dehydration, muscle cramps, or an electrolyte imbalance. If recovery is not prioritised, excessive physical activity could also weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.