Jack Massey Welsh, a professional Youtuber, said he noticed some dramatic differences in his physique following the challenge, but warned it wasn’t for the faint hearted
A British YouTuber has stunned fans by walking an incredible 250,000 steps in just a week – averaging a staggering 37,700 a day.
Jack Massey Welsh, 27, says the extreme challenge left him with swollen ankles, painful blisters, and even a black toenail, but he also saw noticeable changes to his body.
The ambitious trekker clocked up 17 miles a day, more than a half-marathon, which is over three times the recommended 10,000 daily steps and ten times more than the average person’s usual count. Jack documented the gruelling feat in a YouTube video that’s been viewed over 1.5 million times.
Jack admitted the toll it took on his body was brutal, but said, “It’s just one step in front of the other.” Despite the swollen joints and a dose of painkillers on day five, he pushed through and managed to finish the week-long challenge.
Comparing before-and-after snaps, he revealed he’d lost 2lbs and noticed a surprising transformation in his physique, with his legs bulking up while his torso slimmed down.
However, Jack is the first to admit it’s not for everyone. “Do I recommend walking 250,000 steps in a week? Absolutely not. My joints just couldn’t keep up. Even two days later, my ankles are still swollen,” he said.
In an interview with The Mirror , GP Dr. Deepali Misra-Sharp warned that while Jack’s dedication is impressive, it’s not something people should attempt lightly. “Walking 250,000 steps a week is extreme and should only be tried by those who are very fit,” she explained.
“The risks often outweigh the benefits unless it’s done sensibly and with preparation, like training for a marathon.”
Jack revealed his daily routine included a 15,500-step walk in the morning, 14,000 more later in the day, and even a “small” evening stroll with his dog. While he initially managed the heavy schedule, by mid-week the effort was taking its toll.
Professor Lindsay Bottoms, also speaking to The Mirror , echoed the warnings, saying sudden, extreme activity could lead to overtraining symptoms.
“It can weaken your immune system, make you more susceptible to illnesses, and even cause blood pooling in the legs, leading to swelling,” she explained.
For those looking to get fitter, experts suggest a more gradual approach. “Increase your step count by 500 a week rather than making a huge jump,” Professor Bottoms advised. “Pair walking with strength exercises like Pilates to boost weight loss and improve muscle mass.”
The NHS backs walking as a simple but effective form of exercise, recommending a brisk 10-minute daily stroll as part of 150 minutes of weekly activity. They describe a brisk pace as one where you can still talk but are too out of breath to sing.
So, while Jack’s incredible feat is inspiring, experts say steady progress is the key to long-term fitness – and it’ll save you a world of pain!