Woman's 10K Steps on Yoga Mat Sparks Fitness Debate

The Cliff News | 6 November 2026

A growing trend in fitness tracking, where daily step counts are a primary metric, is prompting a re-evaluation of how we define and achieve physical health. This comes as 62-year-old digital creator Saroj Bidkikar has garnered attention for completing her 30-day 10,000 steps challenge entirely on a yoga mat.

Bidkikar shared her unique approach on Instagram, detailing how she strategically incorporates movements throughout her day. "Morning walk – 4.5 K steps; post-yoga and housework, 7K steps done; post-lunch, 9K steps. Crazy ways to get my 10K steps and to keep myself motivated," she posted, emphasizing that even dance contributes to her step count, offering relaxation along with physical activity.

Rethinking Step Count Efficacy

Bidkikar's commitment highlights a broader discussion about whether every step, regardless of its origin, contributes equally to well-being. To address this, The Cliff News consulted with Dr. Ashish Phadnis, Director of Orthopaedics at Jupiter Hospital Thane, to understand the benefits of alternative step-counting methods compared to traditional outdoor walking.

Dr. Phadnis affirmed that any form of movement is superior to a sedentary lifestyle. Activities like stepping forward, backward, sideways, and even jumping jacks can indeed keep the body active. However, he cautioned that these exercises are not a direct substitute for walking outdoors and that fitness should not be solely dictated by step count alone.

Holistic Fitness vs. Step Goals

The expert stressed that the body requires diverse types of movement to maintain the health of its joints and muscles. "People can mix and match activities such as walking, yoga and other exercises over a few days to improve overall fitness, flexibility and mobility," Dr. Phadnis advised, suggesting a more integrated approach to fitness.

This perspective challenges the rigid adherence to step counts, advocating instead for a well-rounded fitness regimen. The emphasis is on engaging different muscle groups and joints to foster comprehensive physical health, rather than fixating on a single metric.

Yoga Mat and Exercise Safety

A key concern arising from Bidkikar's method is the adequacy of support provided by a yoga mat for activities that mimic walking or involve dynamic movements. While yoga mats offer some cushioning, Dr. Phadnis noted they are not specifically designed for repetitive walking or jumping motions.

He explained that very soft or slippery mats can compromise stability, increasing the risk of falls. For high-impact or quick-change-of-direction exercises like jumping jacks, a firm, non-slip surface is a far better choice. The use of appropriate footwear also plays a crucial role in providing necessary support and grip.

Potential for Strain and Injury

Dr. Phadnis further elaborated on the potential risks associated with repetitive, single-mode exercises. Continuously engaging the same muscle groups and loading the same joints without sufficient variation or recovery periods can lead to unnecessary strain.

"The body benefits from a combination of exercises that target different muscle groups and joints," he stated. Repeating one movement for thousands of steps is less beneficial than incorporating a variety of activities that enhance strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.

Prioritizing Variety and Functional Fitness

The expert's recommendation steers away from the chase for high step counts towards a more comprehensive workout strategy. Yoga, for instance, is excellent for improving flexibility and mobility, while resistance training is indispensable for building muscle strength and ensuring joint health.

Dr. Phadnis advocates for integrating walking, balance exercises, and other forms of movement throughout the week. This approach ensures that a wider array of muscle groups and joints are stimulated. "The idea is not to exhaust one particular set of muscles through repetitive movements but to develop overall strength, flexibility and functional fitness. Consistency and variety matter far more than achieving a specific number on the fitness tracker," he concluded.