By Annette Campbell
There are lots and lots of things we can all do for our health; splurge out on expensive pills and potions; invest in a gym membership; and purchase all the latest fitness gear and gadgetry.
Or you could just go for a walk.
This simplest, easiest and cheapest of exercises also happens to be one of the most effective, and that’s the message the Heart Foundation is spreading through their national ‘Just Walk It’ program.
Diane Moore is the co-ordinator of the Just Walk It group in Georges Hall, NSW.
“I had heart bypass surgery eight years ago, and then afterwards I went along for walks with a sister from the hospital, who started the whole thing,” Diane explains. “Now I run the program with the Heart Foundation — although it’s not just for cardiac patients, but anyone who wants to come for a walk. My husband comes along and he has no health complaints at all.
“Our group meets at a local reserve and walks for 45-50 minutes, on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
“The benefits are not only your health — physical and mental — but you also get to meet nice people. We have social events too, like Christmas parties.”
Diane, 65, is a retired office administrator who’s lived with heart problems for 30-odd years.
“I could have had a bypass in the 1970s, but they were hardly heard of back then, so I opted instead to take medication, until it became necessary in 1998,” she explains. “By then, one artery was 97 percent blocked and I ended up having six bypasses done.
“Now, I feel great … wonderful. I only see my GP now for checks, and take cholesterol-lowering tablets.
“I go square dancing once a week, as well as being part of a ‘Gentle Exercise’ group every Monday, and of course, our twice-weekly walks.
“I’d encourage everyone to walk — get out there instead of sitting around. It costs nothing, and you get so much from it.”
Just Walk It is the largest group walking program in Australia. The Heart Foundation run Just Walk It or similar walking groups in most states and territories. To find out more, contact Heartline: 1300 36 27 87 — or visit the Heart Foundation’s website: www.heartfoundation.com.au
According to the Heart Foundation:
Regular physical activity reduces the risk of:
Diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, osteoporosis and colon cancer
Obesity
Injury
Physical activity has also been shown to:
Facilitate better stress management
Alleviate depression and anxiety
Strengthen self-esteem
Enhance mood
Boost mental alertness
The Heart Foundation recommends that people enjoy at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week to obtain a health benefit. Examples of moderate physical activities include brisk walking, cycling, swimming and doubles tennis.
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