More than half the people living in the Sydney West Area Health Service are overweight and have physical activity levels below the state average.

These factors are major contributors to heart, stroke and blood vessel diseases.

The good news is that next week you can make a change. It's Heart Week 2008, which is an initiative of the Heart Foundation.

Blacktown Council will present activities and events from Sunday, May 4, to Saturday, May 10, to help people start healthy lifestyles.

These activities include free fitness classes at Blacktown Leisure Centre in Stanhope Gardens each morning. For details of these classes, which include Pilates, yoga and aquaerobics, call 94212600.

There will also be free Heartmoves classes each day for any new participants at Blacktown Aquatic Centre.

This is a low to moderate exercise program suitable for everybody. It can help lower blood pressure, improve cholestrol control, manage weight and improve overall wellbeing. The instructor will conduct blood pressure checks before every class.

Also at Blacktown Aquatic Centre, there'll be a heart disease seminar (bookings essential) at 10am on Tuesday, May 6. This seminar will show you how to use nutritional supplements.

Details: blcs.blacktown.nsw .gov.au or 96222279.