DALLAS - March 30, 2026 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - Too much sitting has quietly become one of the most common threats to heart health in the United States. Research shows that prolonged sedentary time is linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke and poorer mental health, even among people who exercise. On National Walking Day, the American Heart Association the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, is urging people to interrupt that cycle by moving more, starting with something as simple as a walk.

National Walking Day, celebrated Wednesday, April 1, offers an opportunity for communities across the country to step away from sedentary routines and make movement part of the day. Walking remains one of the most accessible ways to be physically active and can be adapted to fit different abilities, schedules and lifestyles.

“Many people think exercise only helps if it happens every day or for long periods of time,” said Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, FAHA, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association. “What matters most is how much you move over the course of a week. Walking, whether it happens in short bouts or longer stretches, can support heart health, reduce stress and improve overall well‑being.”

Research shows that accumulating at least 150 minutes of moderate‑intensity physical activity each week is associated with meaningful health benefits. Those minutes do not need to be spread evenly throughout the week. They can add up through daily walks, active weekends or a combination of both, offering flexibility for people with busy lives.

To make the most of National Walking Day and continue moving all month, consider these tips:

• Invite friends, family members or coworkers to join you for a walk.
• Take a walking meeting or break up long periods of sitting during the workday.
• Walk your dog, explore a new route or take a stroll after dinner to unwind.
• If walking is not accessible, try seated movement, gentle stretching or other activities that keep you moving safely.
• Share your walk on social media using #NationalWalkingDay to inspire others.

Regular physical activity, including walking, is a key part of the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8™, which outlines the most important behaviors for supporting optimal cardiovascular health. In addition to aerobic activity, the Association recommends muscle‑strengthening activities at least two days each week.

National Walking Day serves as a reminder that movement does not need to be complicated to matter. Every step, every break from sitting and every choice to move counts toward better heart and brain health.

For tips, tools and inspiration to help build healthier habits, visit the Association’s Healthy for Good™ initiative at heart.org/movemore.

Additional Resources:

• Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link.
• Spanish news release (to be added as available)
• Healthy for Good Move More - Steps to building healthy habits
• Fit in Walking Morning, Noon or Night
• American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity
• Follow American Heart Association/American Stroke Association news on X @HeartNews

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.

For Media Inquiries:

Johnny Johnson; johnny.johnson@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org

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