Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips will take steps towards a healthier heart when she joins the Heart Foundation Walk with the ‘Nowra Walkie Talkies’ walking group on Thursday 1 August.
Heart Foundation general manager Simon Cowie and Walking Program Officer NSW/ACT Lizzie Hannah will also join the walk that will kick off from Harry Sawkins Park at 8am.
The Heart Foundation Walking Program is part of the National Walking Initiative currently funded by the Federal Government, promoting a healthier and more connected Australia.
The program has grown to include over 330,000 walkers, who walk in groups in their community or individually with a Personal Walking Plan. There are 700 volunteer-led groups nationwide.
“Evidence shows that just 30 minutes of daily walking can lower heart disease and stroke risk by 35 per cent, reduce key risk factors including hypertension and metabolic disease and boost mood,” Mrs Phillips said.
“Yet only one in five adults meet the level of physical activity recommended by the Australian Guidelines.”
Mrs Phillips walks her dogs daily and said the benefits of joining a walking group extended beyond physical health.
“Walking is so important for social connection and good mental health as well as physical health,” she said.
“Walkers enjoy connecting with others, grabbing a coffee and chatting, which significantly contributes to combating loneliness and improving mental health.”
According to the Heart Foundation, physical inactivity continues to be a major driver of chronic disease, estimated to cost Australia $2.4 billion each year.
The National Walking Initiative focuses on five key areas:
- Supporting more people to participate in the Heart Foundation Walking program.
- Building health professional skills and confidence to discuss and prescribe physical activity.
- Empowering communities to lead local initiatives.
- Promoting active living through healthy built and natural environments.
- Educating the public and advancing action.
Mrs Phillips hoped by taking part in the walk, she would inspire more residents to start a regular walking habit with one of many local walking groups.
Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, pictured with Deb Shapira, is encouraging people to create a regular walking habit.
LOCAL WALKING GROUPS:
https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/basin-bay-strollers
https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/greenwell-point-walkers
https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/kiama-walking-group
https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nowra-walkie-talkies
https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking/group/nsw-happy-feet
MONDAY, 29 JULY 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Katrina Condie: 0437 662 967
