NUMBER OF DAILY STEPS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH BMI IN ADULTS

Abstract

Introduction: The number of daily steps has been linked to various health outcomes, including cardiovascular risk indicators. This study investigated the relationship between daily step count and body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and resting heart rate in adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 50 adult participants. Daily step counts were monitored using a smartphone app. BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and resting heart rate were evaluated. Pearson correlation and Student’s t-test were used for statistical analyses between groups above and below the median step count. Results: An inverse correlation was observed between step count and BMI (r = -0.42; p = 0.002), age (r = -0.35; p = 0.0045), and resting heart rate (r = -0.61; p < 0.0001). Participants walking above the median step count (9,420 steps) had significantly lower BMI and resting heart rate compared to those below the median (3,859 steps). Conclusion: Daily step count is inversely associated with cardiovascular risk indicators, particularly BMI and resting heart rate. Regular walking may represent a simple and effective health promotion strategy.