Exercise has been proven to reduce the risks of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, and local walking groups, along with a Logan City council-led campaign, are trying to spread the message.
Woodridge Wanderers, a walking group that walks inside and around Logan Central Plaza, meets Monday to Friday every week at 7 am.
A member, Alison Gentles, joined the group 21 years ago after she retired.
She said the hour-long walking sessions leave her feeling healthier, physically and socially; Ms Gentles said she enjoyed meeting other members.
The wanderer’s group, like many of the local walking groups, is guided by trained organisers and a local co-ordinator from the Heart Foundation.
The Heart Foundation research suggests 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.
Council has, off the back of this information, launched a new healthy-lifestyle campaign to encourage Logan residents to get involved in the free walking groups.
Deputy mayor and City Lifestyle chairperson, Laurie Koranski, said the walking groups were highly accessible.
“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.”
