Heart Foundation Walking Groups

The local government areas of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Port Stephens rank 5th out of 28 regions in NSW for deaths from heart disease, according to data available at the Heart Foundation’s Australia Heart maps. Many walking groups across the country resumed from 20 June, after a pause to protect walkers, volunteers and the community from virus transmission.

“When gyms and organised sport shut down due to the pandemic, walking became one of the few options for Australians to stay active,” said Heart Foundation Director of Active Living, Adjunct Professor Trevor Shilton. “Large numbers of us discovered or even rediscovered the joys of walking around the neighbourhood with their family and pets.

It’s a really simple and pleasant way to get your recommended 30 minutes of brisk physical activity each day.” Professor Shilton encouraged Australians to continue walking as and to consider joining a Heart

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