SEATTLE, March 20, 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 Wed., April 2 for National Walking Day – to raise awareness of the powerful benefits of regular movement.
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 aerobic and muscle strengthening weekly physical activity.
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.
Don Teigen of Everett, Wash. began walking after he suffered a heart attack in 2020 and the benefits have been numerous. “Walking has been a great way for me to come back from the heart attack stronger than ever. It has improved my mood, helps me manage stress and has enhanced my overall well-being. Best of all, it’s inexpensive and easy to do wherever you are and at any time of day.”
To participate in National Walking Day, consider these ideas:
- Invite colleagues to join you for a walk at lunch
- Take a conference call on the move if you work remotely
- Enjoy a family walk after dinner to support the health and well-being of the entire gang
- April showers? No problem, throw on a raincoat or 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 (article)
- How Much Physical Activity Do You Need (Infographic)
- Read in Spanish
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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. In Washington, visit heart.org/Washington, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.
Media Contacts:
Francesca Minas, Francesca.minas@heart.org
Valerie Koch, Valerie.koch@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
