Heart Foundation launches major campaign to combat heart disease

THE Heart Foundation has launched its largest ever physical activity initiative, Walking Wins, aiming to encourage 400,000 Australians to increase their movement for better heart health.

Heart disease, a leading cause of death in the country, is preventable yet continues to pose a significant health threat.

Data from the National Health Survey reveals only 22.4 per cent of adults meet the Australian Physical Activity Guidelines’ recommended physical activity levels.

Barry Nixon, a coordinator for Heartbeat Ballarat walking, started his group because the need was clear through his volunteering as a lived experience educator with new cardiac patients.

“To live well with cardiac illness, you must move,” he said.

Mr Nixon leads four weekly walks with eighty-five participants enjoying not only the physical benefits but also the social connections.

“The social connection is the bonus; it inspires and motivates,” he said.

“We walk, talk, go for coffee, and repeat. My reward is seeing the disease burden decline and the wellness and quality of life improve.”

Heart Foundation manager for heart health, Kym Lang, highlighted the benefits of walking as an accessible and straightforward way to combat heart disease.

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

“It’s an affordable and simple way to start. 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 empower 400,000 people in Australian to take extra steps towards a healthier heart.”

Cardiovascular disease accounts for one in four deaths in Australia annually.

Regular physical activity, such as walking, can reduce the risk of heart disease by 35 per cent and other chronic conditions by up to 40 per cent.

The campaign promotes the Heart Foundation’s free walking program, encouraging Australians to either join a walking group or sign up for a Personal Walking Plan.

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

The Walking Wins campaign is designed to empower Australians to take proactive steps towards better heart health by making walking a regular part of their lives.

For more information on joining a walking group or obtaining a Personal Walking Plan, visit walking.org.au.