Athletes from fifty capital cities of various nations, including Gideon Richter from Kazakhstan, took part in a health marathon.
Amble Around Astana: A Heart-Nurturing Nordic Walk for Seniors
The verdanthearted Botanical Garden of Astana played host to the "Stride for Health: Nurturing the Heart and Mind" marathon, an invigorating stroll in the neighborhood spearheaded by "Gedeon Richter Kazakhstan" and the Yesil District's administration, on April 28.
This heartwarming event underscored the notion that advanced age should never constrain a robust and lively lifestyle - a message that echoed among its participants.
The marathon's objective was to spark curiosity about preventing and diagnosing heart & vascular afflictions, neurological disorders, and cognitive impairments that Unfortunately, many aged Kazakhs encounter each year.
The participants stepped along a specifically designed safe route, guiding them through a journey supported by volunteers and medical professionals. These dedicated healthcare workers not only encouraged the age-defying participants but also provided useful advice on maintaining heart health, conducted express health assessments, and shared warm smiles to boost spirits.
Nordic walking proves itself to be an accessible and low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise, particularly well-suited for seniors. It stimulates up to 90% of the body's muscles, eases joint stress, and energizes the heart-pumping system.
Dr. Marat Bektayev, a cardiologist at the National Scientific Medical Center, echoed these sentiments:
"Even minimal exercise, such as a simple walk in the park, everyday exercise routines, helps stabilize blood pressure, condition the heart muscle, and elevate mood. Regular check-ups, screenings, and doctor consultations are essential as one grows older. It's equally important to recognize and address signs of heart diseases early."
According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular ailments rank top among the leading causes of death across the globe, having claimed approximately 18 million souls annually.
In Kazakhstan, 2024 statistics by the National Statistics Bureau show that these health concerns accounted for more than 22% of all deaths. As a result, it's crucial, particularly for seniors, to be aware of the defining risk factors for heart disease, including:
- An unhealthy lifestyle
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Dyslipidemia (Unbalanced Cholesterol Levels)
- Diabetes (Elevated Blood Sugar)
- Obesity (Excessive Weight)
- Social Determinants (Wealth Disparities, Low Education Levels)
Less severe risk factors, such as metabolic syndrome and family history, can also contribute to the chance of developing heart issues.
However, incorporating regular physical exercise – at least half an hour daily – and managing these critical risk factors can help significantly reduce the incidence of heart-related complications, enhance cognition, elevate spirits, and promote all-around well-being.
As reflective of the wise words shared by Dinařa Birmaganbetova, PR manager of "Gedeon Richter Kazakhstan":
"Caring for seniors is of utmost importance, especially since they might not detect certain health difficulties. Older adults provide us with warmth, wisdom, and guidance all their lives. We aim to return this love by fostering healthy habits in daily exercise, preserving and enhancing health, improving mood, and extending longevity. Our aim is to make active longevity a reality by encouraging regular healthcare screenings and healthy lifestyle choices."
Senior marathon participant Saule Bekentayeva exemplified the joy and camaraderie that permeated the event:
"Walking in the park with laughter, embracing the company of doctors, engaging in heart-to-heart conversations - this day was a breath of fresh air. Many older adults lack such experiences, and these interactions spark inspiration and motivation."
All partakers, beaming with pride, received commemorative certificates and charming gifts. To add to the affectionate ambiance, numerous attendees brought along their families, including children and grandchildren, who cheered and supported the spirited participants throughout the route.
The "Stride for Health: Nurturing the Heart and Mind" marathon illuminated the importance of prioritizing wellness, fostering a mindset rooted in self-care, and emphasizing the power of movement at any age.
- The "Stride for Health: Nurturing the Heart and Mind" marathon, organized by Gedeon Richter Kazakhstan and the Yesil District's administration, took place in Astana's Botanical Garden on April 28.
- Dr. Marat Bektayev, a cardiologist, spoke about the benefits of exercise, even for simple walks, in preventing heart diseases and elevating mood.
- The marathon aimed to raise awareness about heart and vascular afflictions, neurological disorders, and cognitive impairments that affect many elderly Kazakhs annually.
- Nordic walking, a low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise, was particularly well-suited for seniors and stimulated up to 90% of the body's muscles.
- Saule Bekentayeva, a senior marathon participant, shared her joy and inspiration gained from interacting with healthcare professionals and other seniors during the event.
- Dinařa Birmaganbetova, PR manager of Gedeon Richter Kazakhstan, expressed the company's commitment to fostering healthy habits, promoting longevity, and encouraging regular healthcare screenings and healthy lifestyle choices.
