National Walking Day event on Lakeside Boulevard set for April 1

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - The American Heart Association’s (AHA) National Walking Day is right around the corner! On Wednesday, April 1, Montgomery County Heart Walk sponsor, Aon Hewitt, the global talent, retirement and health solutions business of Aon plc, will host a National Walking Day event on Lakeside Boulevard, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to encourage the community to lace up their sneakers and get moving!

This year, the AHA has issued a new challenge to get every walker to earn their 10,000 steps and share their accomplishment with us on social media. We want to encourage you to take control of your life by showing us your steps on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. We are even encouraging walkers to take a video of themselves earning their steps as a way to help bring awareness to the cause!

The event will also feature interactive games and giveaways from Luke’s Locker, BiFi health drinks, Kona Ice snow cones, MyFitFood samples, Kroger giveaways, and a fun, family-friendly hula hoop contest!

The AHA recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly for adults, which consists of moderate aerobic exercise for 30 minutes a day for five days a week. Americans are spending more time than ever sitting down in front of television and computer screens, which means less time being active. Studies have shown that inactive people can double their risk of heart disease.

People with excess body fat, especially in the midsection, are more likely to suffer from a stroke. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in America, and the No.1 preventable cause of disability. In addition, obesity – especially among children – has emerged as a serious threat to our nation’s health. According to the AHA, about 16 percent of all children and teens in the U.S. are overweight.

It’s time we start taking steps to improve overall health! Here are five ways you can take your first step to heart health today!


Always wear comfortable shoes to avoid injuries. Remember that stretching before is essential for a good walk! When shopping for shoes, look for shoes that are comfortable and will give the best support.

Limit television and computer screen usage to less than 2 hours a day. This will give you more family time and it will also keep you active.

Track your numbers. Measuring the amount of steps you take will give you motivation to try and improve each time you take a walk. Wearing a pedometer will give you an idea of where you are with your physical exercise and where you need to be to meet your goal.

Keep a pair of walking shoes under your desk at work. It’s secret motivation to get up and walk on your lunch break.

Eat more precut veggies and fruit. These healthy snacks will give you the energy you need to continue walking every day. Remember: always stay hydrated with water!

Continue your commitment to a healthy heart by joining us Wednesday, April 1 at Aon Hewitt at 9500 Lakeside Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas, 77381. We look forward to seeing you and encourage everyone to wear red shoelaces!

Remember to show your walking progress pics by tagging us on Twitter and Instagram @ahahouston, or www.facebook.com/ahamontgomery using the hashtag #AHALaceUp.

Also, remember to save the date for this year’s Montgomery County Heart Walk on November 7, 2015. This year’s Heart Walk is co-chaired by Chris Payne, the Executive Vice President of Aon Hewitt and Jeff Gordon, the Vice President of Kiewit Energy Group, Inc. The walk will be held at Aon Hewitt and Northshore Park.