Members of a Central Highlands gym have been lacing up their shoes and stepping up for stroke.
Last month, Middlemount Gym-goers took part in an epic 100-kilometre challenge, all while raising much needed funds and awareness for Stroke Foundation.
Health and Wellbeing Coordinator Sophie Turner said the challenge had already inspired members to become more active, all while lowering their own stroke risk.
"Some of our members have seen firsthand the devastating impact stroke can have on their own families, so they're finding this challenge incredibly rewarding," Sophie said.
"The feedback we've received so far has been fantastic. People are telling us the challenge is motivating them to be more active and helping them stay accountable as they work towards their movement goals.
"I'm really proud of our members. It's been wonderful to see everyone encouraging each other and getting behind such an important cause."
The group has committed to walking or running 100-kilometres during the month, or roughly 3-kilometres a day, with participants tracking their movement and supporting each other along the way.
The fitness enthusiasts are among the hundreds of Aussies who are taking part in Stroke Foundation's annual month-long fundraising campaign,Stride4Stroke.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy commended Team Middlemount for their efforts and urged all Aussies to get moving to reduce their risk of stroke and other chronic conditions.
"Stride4Stroke gives Australians a simple and inclusive way to get moving, raise awareness and help create a future with fewer strokes," Dr Murphy said.
"We know 80 per cent of strokes are preventable, so the good news is you can lower your risk of stroke by getting regular health check-ups with your GP, and making healthier changes such as exercising regularly, quitting smoking, eating a healthy balanced diet and reducing your alcohol intake," Dr Murphy said.
"You can stride anywhere, anytime, and in any way that gets you moving. Just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can reduce your risk of stroke by 25 per cent; and every dollar raised goes towards vital stroke prevention, research, recovery programs and advocacy."
It comes as research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows nearly two in five Australian adults aged between 18 and 64 do not meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity (37 per cent).
"This equates to around 10.5 million Australians who are not getting the recommended amount of physical exercise. Being physically active is important for good health and wellbeing at any age, and is one of the most simple and effective ways you can reduce your risk of stroke."
