Walk and talk to build a healthy heart
03 May 2024
Ipswich residents are being encouraged to take a walk and start a conversation about heart health with their loved ones ahead of Heart Week.
Heart Week, from 6 to 12 May, is Australia’s national heart health awareness week and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has urged residents to mark the week by taking advantage of council’s Active and Healthy Program.
“Ipswich has a high health risk profile with six out of 10 people having at least one risk factor – smoking, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity or obesity,” Mayor Harding said.
“Council introduced our popular Active and Healthy Program as an initiative to support the community becoming more active through a range of free and low-cost group sports, recreation and wellness activities.
“In the 2022-2023 financial year the Active and Healthy Program saw participation grow to 18,554 people involved across a range of 1,112 activities, events and workshops – from yoga to aqua fitness, mums and bubs to Zumba, there is something for everyone.
“Walking remains the most popular way people exercise, and we have many fantastic walkways, parks and nature reserves where the community can take a stroll anytime for free.
“Explore the Brassall Bikeway, take a hike at Flinders Goolman Nature Reserve, or enjoy the green hills of Limestone Park – wherever you go, I encourage people to incorporate more activity into their daily lifestyles.”
Mayor Harding said Heart Week was the ideal time to take a pause and check your heart health.
“Start the conversation at home or with your GP. Discuss your lifestyle, medical and family history. Your doctor will also check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels as part of a check-up,” Mayor Harding said.
Mayor Harding said council shared videos encouraging residents outside and motivated, viewable at Active Ipswich or Active and Healthy Ipswich.
“Check out the videos which show the type of activities available through the Active and Healthy Ipswich program, then log on to council’s website and sign up – it’s quick, easy, and your heart will thank you.
“Council’s new Active and Healthy App makes this program even more accessible and user friendly for people on the go.
“Now is the perfect time to take your heart health to the next level.”