Logan City Council wants to encourage people to get out and walk more regularly to improve their physical fitness.
The Heart Foundation advises that walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes by up to 40 per cent.
Deputy Mayor and City Lifestyle Chair Laurie Koranski said walking delivers wonderful health benefits and is an easy activity to access.
Cr Koranski said Council encourages people to join Australia’s largest network of free community-based walking groups, operated by Heart Foundation Walking.
The City of Logan has five dedicated walking groups which meet at different times during the week.
Walkers are guided by trained organisers and a local co-ordinator from the Heart Foundation.
Cr Koranski said a new campaign had been launched by Council to encourage people to join a free walking program and better look after their health.
“We encourage people to lace up their sneakers, join a local group and get moving for good health,” Cr Koranski said.
“Walking is a great way to improve the health of your heart and take positive steps to reduce heart disease risk. “Joining a walking group is also a good outing and a great chance to make new friends.”
Woodridge Wanderers co-ordinator Carol Gould said the group meets from 7am to 8am, Monday to Friday at Logan Central Plaza, which ensures an all-weather exercise option.
Participants met at the centre’s food court and complete laps at their own pace, inside and around the perimeter of the centre.
The group welcomes anyone who wants to attend.
Woodridge Wanderers member Alison Gentles joined the group 21 years ago when she retired.
She says she goes home after every walk feeling better as she enjoys not only the exercise, but also meeting with other group members.
To find more information on the City of Logan’s walking groups and how to develop a personal walking plan, see Heart-foundation-walking.
This Friday (May 19) is Walk Safely to School Day as part of National Road Safety Week 2023.
For more information visit Walk Safety to School Day.