Walking is a “wonder drug”
We have a beautiful environment to walk in, like Double Island Point, but almost three in four locals in our region are not physically active enough
The Australian Heart Maps data shows about 76% of adults in Gympie are not physically active enough, which is significantly higher than the national average (66%).
Lack of exercise is a leading risk factor for heart disease, and Australian Heart Maps statistics show Wide Bay is among Australia’s 10 least active regions (ranking fifth).
Almost three in four (74.4%) adults are not physically active enough in this region, which includes the Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Gympie, Cherbourg, North Burnett, and South Burnett LGAs.
The Heart Foundation has a plan to make Queensland more walking friendly with wider footpaths, more shade and well-lit pathways, plus safe pedestrian crossings.
Trials of temporary road closures for pedestrian-access-only events, and programs that encourage walking to school and public transport, are among other proposals to get people moving.
Heart Foundation Walking has 320 walking groups across the state and two walks locally. Join Maggie Travers 7am Wednesday and Saturdays around Tin Can Bay/Cooloola Cove – call 0400 756 615 for details.
Heart Foundation Active Living Manager, Sheree Hughes, says investing in walking can save lives and cut healthcare costs.
“Walking is a ‘wonder drug’. It is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions, plus it is suitable for all ages and fitness levels,” Ms Hughes said.
“Queenslanders can reduce their risk of heart disease by up to 35% and improve their mental wellbeing simply by walking briskly for at least 30 minutes a day.”
