Health care professionals: did you know that you can refer your patients and clients to a free Heart Foundation Walking program?
Patients can join or start a local walking group, or go it alone with a six-week Personal Walking Plan, as a perfect compliment to your care that also helps people achieve the national physical activity guidelines.
One group walker said: “Heart Foundation Walking got me off the couch and out of the house. I enjoy the people I meet every week and creating friendships. I like walking as it is a great stress reliever.”
What is the Heart Foundation Walking program?
Heart Foundation Walking aims to encourage physical activity, movement and improve social connections via walking.
The aim is to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and social isolation.
The program supports more people to walk more often, as it’s one of the simplest yet best things we can do for a healthy mind, body and heart.
More than 300,000 participants across the country have stepped up with Heart Foundation Walking.
The program is a great way for your patients to move more and connect with people in their neighbourhood, through a structured and supportive approach.
Patients can participate in two ways:
- Join or start a walking group in their community
- Download a free, six- week Personal Walking Plan
How to refer to Heart Foundation Walking?
- Signpost your patient to their nearest walking group using our dedicated search engine
- Recommend a Personal Walking Plan
- Support your community and start a group
Resources for your practice
How can I find out more information about Heart Foundation Walking?
Visit the Heart Foundation Walking webpage for health care professionals or contact the walking program officer for Victoria, Alicja Najbar-Kaszkiel: alicja.najbar-kaszkiel@heartfoundation.org.au
Disclaimer: This article was provided by Heart Foundation Walking. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
