The Toolamba Steering Committee Walking Group is a sports club located in Greater Shepparton City, Australia. The walking group aims to promote physical activity and a healthier lifestyle by encouraging members to walk together in their community.
Walking groups have been shown to build connexions within communities and contribute to a healthier heart. Walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. It also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of developing certain cancers, improves bone density, balance, and coordination, and lowers the risk of falls and other injuries.
Members of the Toolamba Steering Committee Walking Group have experienced positive health outcomes from regular walking. Maria, a group walker, shared her story of overcoming obesity, diabetes, and blood pressure problems by gradually increasing her daily steps. She went from walking 5,000 steps a day to 15,000 steps a day and is now no longer diabetic and has normalised her blood pressure.
The walking group encourages individuals to join their community and take part in their Facebook group, where they can connect with other walkers and share their experiences. In addition, healthcare professionals can refer their patients to the walking programme to complement their care. The programme provides support and motivation to help individuals meet national physical activity guidelines.
It is easy to get started with the Toolamba Steering Committee Walking Group. Individuals can search for a walking group within a specific radius and register for a group near their location. Walk organisers, who are the backbone of the programme, will provide all the necessary information to start walking with the group. They plan walking routes, determine meeting places, and welcome new members.
For those who are passionate about walking and want to make a difference in their community, the walking group offers the opportunity to become a Volunteer Walk Organiser. This role involves leading and organising walking groups, and volunteers receive training, a thank-you gift, ongoing communication, and invitations to events and workshops.
Join the Toolamba Steering Committee Walking Group today and enjoy the benefits of walking for a healthier heart and a stronger community.