SEATTLE, March 27, 2024 — 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 Wade Hunt, president of MultiCare’s Pulse Heart Institute, who is serving as the co-chairperson for the 2024 Puget Sound Heart and Stroke Walk, an annual community event in the fall for the Association. MultiCare will also be encouraging its employees to walk on April 3. “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.” 

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. 

But why stop there? The American Heart Association also encourages everyone to sign up for the 2024 Puget Sound Heart and Stroke Walk and build up to the three-mile non-competitive walk. The events will be held on September 21 in Seattle and September 28 in Tacoma. This year, the Association aims to raise $1.5 million under the leadership of event co-chairpersons Wade Hunt, president, Pulse Heart Institute and Eddie Bratko, president, MultiCare Tacoma General and MultiCare Allenmore hospitals. To register, visit PugetSoundHeartWalk.org

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

Additional Resources:

###

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 in Washington on heart.org/WashingtonFacebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For Media Inquiries:

Valerie Koch Valerie.koch@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org