WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (March 28, 2024) —Wednesday, April 3 is National Walking Day, established by the American Heart Association to encourage individuals to add more physical activity to their days. This year, in celebration of the American Heart Association’s Centennial, communities across the country are invited to gather on April 3 to take a walk and raise awareness of the benefits of movement.
One in 4 adults in the U.S. are sedentary for more than eight hours each day, which can harm their physical and mental health. Physical activity is one of the best ways to improve overall health, manage stress and boost mood.
“The American Heart Association is a relentless force for building healthier communities, one step at a time,” says Hilda Gonzalez, chief risk officer at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and board member of the American Heart Association Palm Beach County. “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.”
The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate physical activity. Something as simple as taking a 30-minute walk after dinner every weeknight can help individuals meet that goal. Physical activity 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.
- Post about your walk with #WalkingDay to encourage your friends to participate.
For more tips about getting and staying healthy, visit the American Heart Association’s Healthy for GoodTM initiative at heart.org/movemore.
Additional Resources:
- Fight Stress With Healthy Habits (Infographic)
- Fit in Walking Morning, Noon or Night
- American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity
The American Heart Association Palm Beach County serves the residents of Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties. Staff members, volunteers and donors assist the organization in leading efforts to reduce the incidences of heart disease and stroke, the first and fifth leading causes of death of Americans.
For more information about the American Heart Association visit Heart.org/Florida.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and X.
For Media Inquiries:
Nina Barbero, APR