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Winter walking's more fun with a friend: warm the heart and take part

WITH winter fast approaching, the answer to better health is right at your feet - step out with a friend and keep warm while you walk together.

The Heart Foundation Walking program, coordinated in partnership with the City of Fremantle, provides an abundance of free walking opportunities, helping people to become more active in a positive social setting.

“Having a walking buddy makes it easier for people to find motivation to do half an hour’s walk every day, which can really make a difference to your overall well-being,” City of Fremantle Physical Activity Projects Officer Katharine Earl said.

“It’s a good opportunity to chat with friends as you go, catching up on the latest news, or meet new people through the different walking groups available.

“We might be heading into the cooler weather but Perth is renowned for its sunshine over this period and, despite the chill in the air, it’s invigorating for walkers to get the blood flowing to warm themselves up.

“Research has shown that walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes or more on most days of the week can assist in reducing the risk of heart disease by up to half.

“It can also lessen feelings of fatigue and depression and help in the prevention of certain cancers.”

Ms Earl said Heart Foundation Walking gave people the option of joining an existing group or even starting one of their own.

“Walking is regarded as an inexpensive and highly effective form of exercise,” she said. “Starting your own group is simple and means you get to decide where your group walks at a time that best suits you.

“It may not have the intensity of the exercise programs seen on The Biggest Loser but the show’s trainers understand the value of walking and incorporate it into their fitness routines.

“It’s also a chance to reduce your carbon footprint as you step forward and make your own footprints as you go.”

For information on current Heart Foundation Walking Groups, contact Fre-info on 9432 9888 or go to www.heartfoundation.org.au/walking.

• For more details, contact Katharine Earl at the City of Fremantle on 9432 9982 or e-mail katharinee@fremantle.wa.gov.au.