The GWAC Walkers Group is a vibrant sports club located in Melbourne, dedicated to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through walking. The club is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and aims to bring together individuals from the community to walk towards a healthier heart together.
Walking is considered a wonder drug, as it has numerous health benefits. Research has shown that walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Additionally, regular walking has been proven to manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduce the risk of certain cancers, maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
The GWAC Walkers Group offers a range of walking groups within a 10 km, 20 km, 25 km, 50 km, and 100 km radius of Melbourne, allowing individuals to find a group that suits their location and preferences. Joining a walking group provides the opportunity to build connexions within the community while working towards a healthier heart.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to the structured and supportive walking programme offered by the GWAC Walkers Group. This programme complements their care, whether their patients prefer to walk alone or in a group. The motivational programme has been developed to help individuals meet the national physical activity guidelines and improve their overall health.
Testimonials from members of the GWAC Walkers Group highlight the positive impact that walking has had on their lives. For example, Maria, a group walker, shares her inspiring story of overcoming weight, diabetes, and blood pressure issues through regular walking. She started with walking 5,000 steps a day and eventually reached 15,000 steps a day, leading to significant improvements in her health.
To join the walking community of the GWAC Walkers Group, individuals can join the Facebook group or use the search function on the club's website to find a walking group near them. Registration is easy, and individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Walk Organiser for more information and to get started.
For those interested in making a difference and leading their own walking group, the GWAC Walkers Group offers the opportunity to become a Volunteer Walk Organiser. Organisers are the lifeblood of the programme, planning routes, meeting places, and walk times, and welcoming new members. Volunteers receive training, access to an online profile to manage their group, thank you gifts, ongoing communications, and invitations to events and workshops.
Whether a member of the GWAC Walkers Group or a Volunteer Walk Organiser, individuals have the chance to be recognised for their walking efforts through the Walker Recognition Scheme. This scheme rewards walkers for their commitment and achievements.
Overall, the GWAC Walkers Group is a welcoming and supportive sports club in Melbourne, providing individuals with the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health through the simple act of walking.