Anchorage, Alaska, March 30, 2026—As people across the nation navigate higher levels of stress and spend more of their day sitting, finding time to move can feel challenging. Less than half of adults and fewer than one in five children in the U.S. get the recommended amount of physical activity needed for heart health, according to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart & Stroke Statistical Update. That’s why the Association invites communities nationwide to gather on Wednesday, April 1 for National Walking Day.
“Cold weather and busy lives can make movement feel challenging, but National Walking Day is about meeting Alaskans where they are,” said Jacob P. Kelly, M.D., American Heart Association volunteer medical expert and cardiologist at Alaska Heart & Vascular Institute. “Whether it’s a short walk or moving indoors, walking helps reduce stress, boost mood and support heart health, and it doesn’t have to look the same for everyone.”
Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to stay active. Research shows it not only lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease but also supports mental well-being:
- A study recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found engaging in at least 75 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, including brisk walking, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 17%.
- Research recently published in the journal JAMA Network Open found adults who walked at least 5,000 steps a day had fewer symptoms of depression than those who did not.
To participate in National Walking Day, consider these ideas:
- Invite friends, family or colleagues to join you for a walk, in person or virtually.
- Take a phone call on the move or add a few minutes of movement between meetings.
- Still have snow on the ground? No problem. Walk indoors at a mall or other covered space.
- Bring your pet, a stroller or just yourself. Any movement counts.
Benefits of walking in the cold:
- There’s no heat and humidity to deal with, so the winter chill might make you feel awake and invigorated.
- You may be able to work out longer in cold weather – which means you can burn even more calories.
- It’s a great way to take in the sunlight. Not only can light improve many people’s moods, it also helps you get some vitamin D.
Don’t forget to layer up. A little preparation can keep you safe from cold weather hazards like hypothermia and frostbite.
For information about getting active and staying healthy, visit the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good™ initiative at heart.org/movemore.
Additional Resources:
- How to Stay Active in Cold Weather
- Fight Stress With Healthy Habits (Infographic)
- Fit in Walking Morning, Noon or Night
- How Much Physical Activity Do You Need (Infographic)
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. In Alaska, connect with us on heart.org/Alaska, Facebook, Instagram or X.
For Media Inquiries:
Amber Moak, amber.moak@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
