Heart Support Hastings Walking Group is a sports club located in Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. This walking group is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and aims to promote heart health and overall wellbeing in the local community.
The walking group encourages individuals to join and enjoy the numerous benefits of walking. Walking for an average of 30 minutes a day has been proven to lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 per cent. Additionally, regular walking can help 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 Heart Support Hastings Walking Group offers a supportive and structured walking programme that complements the care provided by healthcare professionals. Patients can choose to walk alone or join a group, and the programme is designed to help them meet the national physical activity guidelines. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to this programme for additional support.
Testimonials from group members, such as Maria, showcase the positive impact walking can have on overall physical and mental health. Maria was able to overcome diabetes and blood pressure problems by gradually increasing her daily step count and now walks 15,000 steps a day.
Joining the Heart Support Hastings Walking Group is easy. Interested individuals can join the Facebook group and become part of the walking community. By searching for a walking group within the desired radius, participants can find a group near their location. Once registered, they will receive all the necessary information from their Walk Organiser to get started, including walking routes, meeting times, and any other relevant details.
The Heart Support Hastings Walking Group also encourages individuals to become Walk Organisers. These dedicated volunteers play a vital role in planning and leading walking groups. They are responsible for determining the walking routes, meeting times, and welcoming new members to the group. Walk Organisers receive training and access to an online profile to manage their group.
Additionally, they receive ongoing communication, invitations to events and workshops, and a thank you gift for their contribution.
The Heart Support Hastings Walking Group welcomes individuals over the age of 18 who are interested in improving their heart health and overall wellbeing. By joining the walking group, participants can enjoy the benefits of physical activity while building connexions within their community.