Significance: Physical activity (PA) has been shown to benefit glucose and insulin dynamics in men and women of all ages and ethnicities. However, debate continues about the quantity and quality of PA needed to improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Recently, a recommendation of accumulating 10,000 steps/d to reduce disease risk was introduced. This recommendation holds promise because walking is the most commonly performed activity for individuals with diabetes and is a convenient, low-impact mode of PA. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether the accumulation of daily steps, without regard to exercise intensity, would result in improved glucose and insulin dynamics in overweight women. Design: Eighteen inactive, overweight women at risk for developing type 2 diabetes (53.3 ± 7.0 yr; 35.0 ± 5.07 kg/m2) completed the 13-wk study comprised of a 1-wk screening period, 4-wk control period and an 8-wk intervention period. An oral glucose tolerance test was used to study glucose and insulin dynamics at the end of each phase of the study. Pedometers were used to monitor steps/d throughout the study. After determining baseline activity level, a 4-wk control period was used to demonstrate that glucose and insulin levels were stable. During the 8-wk intervention period, participants were given the goal of accumulating 10,000 steps each day. Dietary intake did not change during the study. Results: At baseline, participants had normal fasting plasma glucose levels (5.84 ± 1.07 mmol/L), but elevated 2-h plasma glucose levels (9.40 ± 2.81 mmol/L ), as well as elevated systolic (137.7 ± 10.8 mmHg) and diastolic (88.4 ± 5.4 mmHg) blood pressures. During the control period, participants accumulated 4972 steps/d. During the intervention period participants increased accumulated steps/d to 9213. The 85% increase in accumulated activity resulted in beneficial changes in 2-h plasma glucose levels (-0.78 mmol/L, P<0.001), AUCglucose (-26.3 mmol/L, P=0.02), systolic blood pressure (-8.2 mmHg, P<0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (-5.3 mmHg, P=0.003). These changes occurred despite no changes in body weight during the intervention period. Insulin values were not altered by the walking program. Conclusion: Eight weeks of accumulating approximately 10,000 steps/d resulted in improved glucose tolerance as well as reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressures in previously inactive, overweight women at risk for type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, it appears that activity does not have to be structured, or weight loss obtained, to benefit this population. Supported by AAHPERD Research Consortium Grants Program.Keyword(s): disease prevention, physical activity