Tasmanians Boost Health With Science-Backed Strategies for Stress, Fitness, Diet

As of July 2026, Tasmania's capital city Hobart has seen a significant increase in people taking up outdoor activities such as the Hobart Waterfront parkrun and kunanyi/Mt Wellington summit hikes, with over 500 participants per week.

This surge in outdoor activity is particularly important now, given the recent heatwaves experienced in other parts of Australia, such as Sydney's record-breaking June temperatures. Tasmania's generally milder climate makes it an ideal place to stay active year-round, and with the right strategies, locals can make the most of their environment to improve their physical and mental health.

In Tasmania, organisations such as the University of Tasmania's (UTAS) health research department and the Tasmanian Health Service are working to promote healthy lifestyles and provide evidence-based tips for managing stress and getting active. For example, the UTAS's Menzies Institute for Medical Research is located on Liverpool Street in Hobart and offers a range of health and wellness programs, while the Tasmanian Health Service's Healthy Tasmania initiative provides resources and support for healthy eating and physical activity. Specific programs, such as the 'Live Lighter' campaign, which encourages Tasmanians to make healthy food choices and be more active, are also being implemented in local communities, including in neighbourhoods such as South Hobart and Battery Point.

Getting the Facts Straight

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), in 2020-21, 62.4% of Tasmanians reported doing some form of physical activity in the previous week, with walking being the most popular activity. Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that outdoor exercise, such as hiking and running, can have additional mental health benefits compared to indoor exercise. With the average cost of a gym membership in Hobart being around $60 per month, outdoor activities like the Hobart Waterfront parkrun, which is free to participate in, are a cost-effective and evidence-based way to stay active and healthy.

So, what can Tasmanians do to make the most of their local environment and stay healthy? Firstly, getting outside and being active is key, whether that's through hiking, running, or simply taking a walk along the Hobart waterfront. Secondly, making healthy food choices, such as eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limiting processed and sugary foods, can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health. Finally, staying connected with local communities and organisations, such as the UTAS health research department and the Tasmanian Health Service, can provide access to evidence-based tips and resources for managing stress and staying healthy. By following these strategies, Tasmanians can take advantage of their unique environment and make the most of the state's natural beauty to improve their overall health and wellbeing.