The Heart Foundation played matchmaker on Valentine’s Day six years ago when it brought Scottsdale residents Beryl Butchart and Max Hodgetts together at a walking group.

They were married in January the next year.

“We got to walking and talking and a relationship developed from there,” Ms Hodgetts said.

Mr and Ms Hodgetts said they still enjoy the exercise and friendships make through walking in a group.

On Valentine’s Day this year, the Heart Foundation Walking urged all Australians to rediscover the joy of walking, whether it be “a romantic walk with a partner, a chance to catch up with friends, or a solo stroll to clear your head, relax and reflect”.

Heart Foundation Walking manager Michelle Wilson said walking not only helps people to socialise, but to stay active.

“Walking in groups helps you to meet and talk to new people, helps you to stay active and strengthens your connections to others, but heading out for a walk by yourself can be just as beneficial, providing valuable ‘me’ time and a great way to escape the demands of daily life,” Ms Wilson said.

“Going for a walk does not only do wonders for your health, but lifts your spirits, improves your mood and reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue. 

“Just walking at a moderate pace for half an hour on most days of the week can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke by 25 per cent.

“It can also lower your risk of colon cancer by 30 per cent, and breast cancer by 20 per cent,” she said.

Heart Foundation Walking is Australia’s largest free walking network, with groups in many towns in the state’s North such as Deloraine, George Town, Launceston, Perth, Ringarooma, Scottsdale, and St Helens.

To get involved with a walking group or for more information, visit walking.heartfoundation.org.au or call 13 11 12.

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