Million steps for health
Walk campaign launched by the Heart Foundation
TWO bouts with deep vein thrombosis and a pulmonary embolism were enough to get Barry Herrman walking.
It was 14-years ago that, after a number of health issues, Mr Herrman decided things had to change.
On the back of the Heart Foundation’s launch of the One Million Steps campaign, the organisation’s long-time volunteer is encouraging others in the region to get walking.
Reflecting on his own journey to better health, Mr Herrman said walking was an exercise we often overlook.
“I was very unfit and had a lot of trouble just walking around the block,” he said.
“It used to take me an hour and now it only takes 15 minutes.
“I can now walk all the way down South St to Tabletop Mountain.
“My health has certainly improved.”
Mr Herrman shared his story in the hope that others in the region will sign up and join him in the challenge.
Recalling the day he had a pulmonary embolism, Mr Herrman urged residents to look out for the warning signs regardless of how old you are.
“I was bending down one morning and that’s when it hit,” he said.
“I asked my wife to help me
but she didn’t believe me until I got up and went blue in the face.”
Despite being a volunteer at the organisation for 14 years, this year will be the first time Mr Herrman attempts the One Million Steps challenge.
While he hasn’t set a time for when he would like to complete the challenge, Mr Herrman said just walking more would be a bonus for him.
“Walking doesn’t cost anything,” he said.
“It only costs a bit of time out of your day.”
The campaign, launched by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at the weekend, gives participants 20 weeks to walk a million steps to encourage millions of Australians to live a health lifestyle.