World silver medal race walker Olive Loughnane teamed up with Boyzone’s Mikey Graham, and RTÉ Prime Time presenter Miriam O’Callaghan to get the nation moving as part of the Irish Heart Foundation’s Heart Week which runs from Monday September 21 to Sunday September 27.
Kitted out with pedometers, the quick-walking trio showed how easy it is to step it up at a brisk pace for the good of your heart and overall health.
Olive Loughnane said, “Exercise is a passion of mine and I think it is one of the most enjoyable past-times. The best part is - you don’t have to be a champion walker to get out there and give it a try. Walking is fun, anyone can do it. Being physically active is so important for your heart and overall health but it also makes you feel great. I would encourage everyone to sign up for the Walk or Step Challenge during Heart Week because you don’t know what you’re missing!”
The week which culminates with World Heart Day on Sunday September 27 features the Athlone World Heart Day 5km which is being organised by Athlone Regional Sports Centre in conjunction with the Athlone Advertiser and Precor Fitness.
The event is open to both adults and children from eight years of age upwards.
Liam Cunningham, general manager of Athlone Regional Sports Centre reminded everyone that the whole idea behind the event is fun and awareness. “It’s a special day, it’s about fun, and getting out there, walking with your friends or family, having a cup of tea afterwards, and at the same time doing something healthy and raising money for two good causes, The Irish Heart Foundation and secondly to buy some cholesterol testing units for St Vincent’s Hospital in Athlone.
“You can walk or run the 5km distance and we are calling on all people to do something on the day, bring a friend and enjoy it.”
