Walking Wins: the next big step in fight against heart disease

Media release: 3 April 2024

Major campaign to get 400,000 more Australians moving

The Heart Foundation is launching its biggest-ever physical activity campaign, Walking Wins, to encourage 400,000 Australians to get moving and improve their heart health.

Heart disease is a largely preventable condition yet remains a leading cause of death in Australia.

According to the National Health Survey, only 1 in 5 five (22.4%) adults aged 18–64 years meet the recommended levels of physical activity set out in the Australian Physical Activity Guidelines.

The Heart Foundation’s Manager for Heart Health and Community Engagement, Kym Lang, said walking can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and is an ideal form of physical activity as it’s free, accessible for many people, it’s simple to get started and can be done almost anywhere.

"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.”

The Walking Wins campaign encourages people to join the Heart Foundation’s free walking program, which offers support and motivation to help people start and stay walking. People can join or lead a walking group in their community, or sign up for a free Personal Walking Plan, which will help them reach the recommended physical activity levels by the end of the six-week plan.

The Heart Foundation invites all Australians to take their next steps towards a healthier mind, body and heart. To get a free Personal Walking Plan or join a local walking group, visit walking.org.au