The Walkabouts is a sports club located in the City of Mount Gambier, Australia. This club is dedicated to promoting physical activity, specifically walking, as a means of improving overall health and well-being.
The Walkabouts offer a range of programmes and opportunities for individuals to participate in walking groups. They believe in the power of community and the importance of building connexions within it. By joining a walking group, individuals can not only work towards a healthier heart but also forge friendships and support one another in their fitness journeys.
Walking has proven to have numerous health benefits, and The Walkabouts aim to spread awareness about these advantages. By walking for an average of 30 minutes a day, individuals can lower their risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Regular walking also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce the risk of developing certain cancers. It even aids in maintaining bone density, improving balance and coordination, and reducing the risk of falls and other injuries.
The Walkabouts also work closely with healthcare professionals to complement their care for patients. They offer a structured and supportive walking programme that aligns with national physical activity guidelines. This programme can be tailored to individual preferences, whether someone prefers to walk alone or in a group. By referring their patients to The Walkabouts, healthcare professionals can provide an additional resource to help patients meet their physical activity goals and improve their overall health.
Testimonials from members of The Walkabouts showcase the positive impact walking has had on their lives. Maria, a group walker, shares her journey of weight loss, improved blood pressure, and overcoming diabetes through walking. Her story highlights the profound impact that this simple form of exercise can have on mental and physical health.
To join The Walkabouts' walking community, individuals can join their Facebook group or search for a walking group near them using their website. Getting started is easy, with a simple search by suburb, town, or postcode. Once registered, individuals can connect with their assigned Walk Organiser, who will provide all the necessary information to begin walking with the group.
The Walkabouts also encourage individuals to consider becoming a Walk Organiser themselves. These volunteers play a crucial role in the programme, planning walking routes and meeting places, determining schedules, and welcoming new members. Walk Organisers receive training, access to an online profile for managing their group, ongoing communications, and invitations to events and workshops.
The Walkabouts is dedicated to recognising and rewarding the efforts of their walkers. They offer a Walker Recognition Scheme to acknowledge those who consistently participate and achieve their walking goals. This further motivates individuals to continue their walking journey and encourages others to join in.
In summary, The Walkabouts is a sports club in the City of Mount Gambier that promotes walking as a means of improving overall health and well-being. They offer walking groups, programmes, and resources for individuals looking to become more active and receive the numerous health benefits associated with walking. With the support of healthcare professionals and a dedicated community, The Walkabouts strive to create a healthier and happier society.