The American Heart Association encourages people to move more for a healthier mind and body on National Walking Day, Wednesday, April 2
UTICA, NEW YORK, March 31, 2025 — Less than half of adults and fewer than one in five children in the U.S. get the recommended amount of physical activity needed for heart health, according to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart & Stroke Statistical Update. That’s why the Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, invites communities nationwide to gather on Wednesday, April 2 for National Walking Day – to raise awareness of the powerful benefits of regular movement.
“The American Heart Association is committed to building a healthier future for everyone, one step at a time,” said Amy DeMetri, chair of the board of directors of the American Heart Association in the Mohawk Valley, and of ARD Consulting and loanDepot. “National Walking Day is a celebration of how small steps can lead to big changes in the health and happiness of our communities.”
National recommendations, supported by the American Heart Association, call for children to get at least an hour of physical activity each day—the latest statistics show that less than 19 percent of children in the U.S. achieve that. And less than half of adults get the recommended 150 minutes or more of weekly physical activity recommended.
Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to stay active. Research shows it not only lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease but also supports mental well-being:
- A study recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found engaging in at least 75 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, including brisk walking, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 17%.
- Research recently published in the journal JAMA Open Network found adults who walked at least 5,000 steps a day had fewer symptoms of depression than those who did not.
“Walking is a great way to live longer and live healthier. It improves your mood, reduces stress and lowers the risk of diseases while enhancing your overall well-being,” DeMetri said. “Best of all, it’s inexpensive and easy to do wherever you are and at any time of day.”
The Mohawk Valley Circle of Red, a group that supports the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement, will walk together at Proctor Park, off of Culver Ave. between Rutger and Bleecker streets from 4 to 6 on National Walking Day. They will meet at 4 at the main pavilion, near the parking lot.
To participate in National Walking Day, consider these tips:
- Invite friends, family or colleagues to join you for a walk.
- Take a conference call on the move if you work remotely.
- April showers? No problem, take a walk at the local mall.
- Bring your pet along—it’s great for both of you!
For information about getting active and staying healthy, visit the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good™ initiative at heart.org/movemore.
Additional Resources:
- Fight Stress With Healthy Habits (Infographic)
- Fit in Walking Morning, Noon or Night
- How Much Physical Activity Do You Need (Infographic)
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
