The Mount Isa walking group has 27 members and meets at 9am each Monday at The North West Community Rehabilitation Hall opposite the underground hospital museum.

The set a medium pace for about 45-60 minutes each week.

Heart Week (April 29- May 6) shines a spotlight on heart disease and this year, the Heart Foundation is encouraging Australians to get moving by increasing their levels of physical activity and reducing their time spent sitting.

Walk Organiser Raelene Macnamara from Mount Isa Community and Primary Health Services said it was the perfect opportunity for locals of Mount Isa to get together to boost their step count and their heart health.

“Regular walking is one of the best choices that people of all ages and abilities can take to improve their health and wellbeing,” Ms Macnamara said.

“It’s free, easy and can be done practically anywhere. What’s more, it connects us with others and with our community,” she said.

Heart Foundation National spokesman Trevor Shilton said physical activity is the easiest thing you can do to improve your health.

“At least 30 minutes of physical activity a day can reduce your risk of heart disease by 35 per cent,” Associate Professor Shilton said.

“It can also help manage depression and anxiety, reduce the risk of type two diabetes and some cancers and lower the risk of dementia later in life” he said.

During Heart Week, the Heart Foundation is encouraging Australians to get moving for at least 30 minutes each day – people can even break it down to three 10-minute blocks.

Associate Professor Shilton said the most important thing for your heart, was to get moving.

“Regular physical activity is important at all ages and stages through life,” Associate Professor Shilton said.

“You are never too young or old to benefit from being physically active,” he said.