Cathie Matildas Walking Group

Cathie Matildas Walking Group is a sports club located in Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, dedicated to promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle through walking. The club is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and aims to build connexions within the community while improving heart health.

The group emphasises the many benefits of walking, which include reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Regular walking can also help manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce the risk of certain cancers and improve bone density. Additionally, walking enhances balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

The club offers a free Personal Walking Plan that can help individuals feel healthier and happier in just six weeks. By following this plan, participants can develop a structured walking routine tailored to their fitness level and goals.

Joining Cathie Matildas Walking Group provides the opportunity to be part of a supportive and motivated community. Walking together not only enhances physical health but also fosters social connexions and a sense of camaraderie. Members can enjoy exploring scenic routes in and around Port Macquarie-Hastings Council while improving their cardiovascular fitness.

The club encourages healthcare professionals to refer their patients to the structured and supportive walking programme, which complements their care. Whether patients prefer walking alone or in a group, the programme has been designed to help them meet the national physical activity guidelines and improve their overall well-being.

The success stories of group members, such as Maria, serve as inspiration for others. Maria struggled with weight issues, diabetes, and high blood pressure for many years. She started by walking up to 5,000 steps a day and gradually increased it to 15,000 steps a day. As a result, she is no longer diabetic and has no issues with her blood pressure.

Maria's experience highlights the incredible impact that walking can have on both mental and physical health.

Joining Cathie Matildas Walking Group is easy and can be done by accessing the Facebook group. Interested individuals can also search for a walking group within a specific radius of their location by using the provided search function. Once a suitable group is found, participants can register and contact the Walk Organiser for more information on how to get started.

The club also encourages individuals to become Walk Organisers and lead their own walking groups. Walk Organisers play a vital role in the programme by planning walking routes, determining meeting times and locations, and welcoming new members. In return, they receive training, access to an online profile for group management, thank you gifts, ongoing communications, and invitations to events and workshops.

Cathie Matildas Walking Group is dedicated to improving heart health and fostering a sense of community through walking. By joining this sports club, individuals can reap the numerous benefits of regular physical activity while enjoying the beauty of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's surroundings.