Take steps towards a longer, healthier life on National Walking Day

Samantha Bowen

The American Heart Association invites people to move more and stress less as organization celebrates 100 years of lifesaving work

Physical activity is one of the best ways to improve overall health and manage stress, yet 1 in 4 U.S. adults are sedentary for more than eight hours each day, which can have negative consequences on physical and mental health. The American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, established National Walking Day to encourage people to move more throughout their day. This year, in celebration of the organization’s Centennial, communities across the country are invited to gather on Wednesday, April 3 to take a walk and raise awareness of the benefits of movement.

“The American Heart Association is a relentless force for building healthier communities, one step at a time,” said Kim McCarthy, Southern New England American Heart Association 2024 Heart Walk Chair.  “National Walking Day demonstrates the progress that can happen when people come together and take steps, big or small, to improve the health of their communities.”Take steps towards a longer, healthier life on National Walking Day

Walking is one of the simplest ways to get and stay active. Physical activity such as walking can help reduce stress, improve mood and sleep, and lower the risk of diseases. To participate in National Walking Day, the American Heart Association offers these tips:

  • Ask colleagues, friends or family to join you.
  • If you work remotely, take a conference call on the go.
  • If you have a pet, get moving together! Walking is a win-win for the health of you and your pet.

To participate in National Walking Day, invite friends, family, colleagues or even a pet to join in on a walking route of your choice. Upload your photos to social media and tag @aharhodeisland for an opportunity to be featured on the channel’s page.

For more tips about getting and staying healthy, visit the American Heart Association’s Healthy for GoodTM initiative at heart.org/movemore.

Additional Resources:

The 2024 Southern New England Heart Walk is on June 8th, 2024. To register your team click here. For more information on sponsorships please email, [email protected].