The Mt Gambier Happy Heart Walkers is a sports club located in the City of Mount Gambier, Australia. They are a walking group that aims to promote a healthier lifestyle and improve heart health in the community. The club is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia.
The club offers personalised walking plans to help members achieve their health and fitness goals. These plans are designed to make individuals feel healthier and happier within six weeks of starting. They are provided to members for free.
One of the main focuses of Mt Gambier Happy Heart Walkers is building connexions in the community. By joining a walking group, members can walk together towards a healthier heart. The club encourages members to search for a walking group within a specific radius of their location, making it easy for individuals to find a group close to them.
The benefits of walking regularly are highlighted by the club, with research showing that walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 per cent. Walking regularly also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduces the risk of developing some cancers, maintains bone density, and improves balance and coordination.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to the structured and supportive walking programme offered by the club. This programme complements the care provided by healthcare professionals and helps patients meet the national physical activity guidelines.
Testimonials from members, such as Maria, who successfully improved her health through walking, are shared to inspire others to join the walking community. Maria's story highlights how walking had a positive impact on her mental and physical health, helping her overcome diabetes and blood pressure problems.
The club invites individuals to join their Facebook group to become part of the walking community. They offer support and information through their website and can be contacted for further inquiries.
For those interested in leading a walking group, the club offers the opportunity to become a Walk Organiser. Walk Organisers are responsible for planning walking routes, organising meeting places and times, and welcoming new members to the group. Training and ongoing support are provided to Walk Organisers, and they are recognised and rewarded for their contributions.
To become a Walk Organiser or volunteer for the club, individuals are required to be over the age of 18. The club values the contribution of its volunteers and offers thank you gifts, ongoing communication, and invitations to events and workshops.