The Heart Foundation has launched its largest ever physical activity initiative, Walking Winds, with the aim of encouraging 400,000 Australians to increase their physical activity to improve their heart health.

Heart disease, the country’s leading cause of death, is preventable but remains a significant health threat.

National Health Survey data shows only 22.4 per cent of adults meet the physical activity levels recommended by the Australian Physical Activity Guidelines.

Heartbeat Ballarat Walk co-ordinator Barry Nixon started the group after seeing a need through his volunteer work as a hands-on educator for new heart patients.

“To live well with heart disease, you have to move,” he said.

Mr. Nixon leads walks four times a week, with 85 participants enjoying not only the physical benefits but also the social connection.

“Social connection is a bonus. It gives you inspiration and motivation,” he said.

“We walk, we talk, we go for coffee, over and over again. My reward is seeing the burden of disease decrease and health and quality of life improve.”

Kim Lang, heart health manager at the Heart Foundation, highlighted the benefits of walking as an accessible and easy way to fight heart disease.

“Walking is a great way to incorporate more physical activity into your daily life,” Lang said.

“It’s an affordable and easy way to get started. Achieving 30 minutes of physical activity a day can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and support a healthier mind, body, and heart.”

“The Heart Foundation’s goal is to help 400,000 people in Australia take the next step towards healthier hearts.”

One in four people in Australia die from cardiovascular disease each year.

Regular physical activity, such as walking, reduces your risk of heart disease by 35% and other chronic diseases by up to 40%.

The campaign promotes the Heart Foundation’s free walking program and encourages Australians to join a walking group or sign up for a personal walking plan.

These initiatives aim to help participants reach recommended physical activity levels within six weeks.

The Walking Wins campaign aims to empower Australians to take an active role in improving their heart health by making walking a regular part of their lives.

For more information about joining a walking group or obtaining a personal walking plan, please visit: walking.org.au.