The Irymple Green Belt Walking Group is a sports club located in Mildura Rural City that focuses on promoting health and fitness through walking. With support from the National Heart Foundation of Australia, this group aims to build connexions within the community and encourage members to walk towards a healthier heart together.
Walking is often referred to as the “wonder drug” because of its numerous health benefits. By walking for just 30 minutes a day, individuals can reduce their risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Additionally, regular walking can help manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
The Irymple Green Belt Walking Group offers a structured and supportive walking programme that complements the care provided by healthcare professionals. Whether individuals prefer to walk alone or in a group, this programme is designed to help meet national physical activity guidelines and improve overall wellbeing.
Testimonials from group members, such as Maria, highlight the positive impacts walking has had on their physical and mental health. Walking has allowed Maria to overcome weight issues, diabetes, and blood pressure problems. Through perseverance and gradually increasing her step count, Maria was able to significantly improve her health and achieve a higher quality of life.
To join the Irymple Green Belt Walking Group, individuals can join the group's Facebook page and become part of a supportive walking community. In addition, there are over 600 walking groups nationwide, making it easy for individuals to find a group near their location. Getting started is simple – individuals can search for a walking group in their suburb, town, or postcode, register for the group, and contact the designated Walk Organiser who will provide all the necessary information to begin walking.
For those interested in making a difference in their community, the Irymple Green Belt Walking Group encourages individuals to become Volunteer Walk Organisers. As a Walk Organiser, individuals will plan walking routes, determine meeting times and locations, and welcome new members to the group. The Heart Foundation provides training and ongoing support for Walk Organisers, along with the opportunity to be recognised and rewarded for their efforts.
Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to join the Irymple Green Belt Walking Group and become part of a community dedicated to improving their heart health and overall wellbeing.