"'Al Golpito por tu Salud' Encourages Exercise to Prevent Cardiovascular Risk in Fuerteventura"

This edition, with more than 150 people already registered, aims to surpass the 300 walks recorded in the previous edition.

The Fuerteventura Health Promotion Network (RedPSAP), driven by the island’s Health Authority, continues to foster physical and emotional well‑being through its community program “Al Golpito por Salud.” The initiative organizes guided walks to encourage regular physical activity and to help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Launched in 2018 in the Península de Jandía Basic Health Zone (ZBS) and expanded in 2023 to the other basic health zones of the island—La Oliva, Puerto del Rosario, and Tuineje‑Pájara—the project has become a benchmark for cardiovascular disease prevention and the promotion of healthy lifestyle habits among residents.

Since September, more than 150 participants have signed up for the walks, and RedPSAP expects to exceed the 284 walks held in the previous edition. Each walk lasts about 90 minutes and takes place once or twice a week along the coastlines of the participating towns. The activities have been shown to:

• Lower blood pressure
• Improve lipid profiles
• Regulate blood glucose
• Reduce obesity risk
• Help prevent skin cancer
• Boost mental health and emotional well‑being

The program adopts a multidisciplinary approach, involving physiotherapists, doctors, and social workers who lead the walks and provide guidance on healthy habits such as balanced nutrition, proper hydration, and stress management.

Results have been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting not only physical health improvements but also enhanced emotional well‑being. Regular physical activity has helped reduce cardiovascular risk factors associated with sedentary lifestyles, fostered social interaction among participants, and contributed to better mental health.

Walking Schedule for “Al Golpito por tu Salud”

Walks typically gather around 30 participants and do not require prior registration. The program pauses in August; participants are advised to confirm the schedule beforehand, as times may vary seasonally.

Departure points and preset times:

• ZBS Península de Jandía

  • Morro Jable Health Center: Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.

• ZBS Tuineje/Pájara

  • Gran Tarajal Health Center: Monday at 6:00 p.m. and Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.

• ZBS La Oliva

  • Corralejo Health Center: Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

• ZBS Puerto/Antigua/Betancuria

  • Puerto del Rosario: Monday and Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. (departure from Avenida de los Reyes de España, opposite Los Paragüitas)

These walks aim to keep the community active, informed, and healthier—one step at a time.