Wakawaka Walkers is a sports club located in Brisbane, Australia, that aims to promote health and well-being through walking. The club organises regular walks every Saturday and Sunday at 6:00 am, with a duration of 30 to 45 minutes. The group consists of nine members and maintains a medium pace during their walks.
Unfortunately, Wakawaka Walkers is not a dog-friendly or pram/wheelchair-friendly club. The meeting point for the walks is at Trinity Green Estate, specifically at the bus stop on the bridge at the corner of Trinity Way and Bengray St in Drewvale.
The club is part of a larger community of walking groups in Brisbane. Members can search for other walking groups within a specific radius from their location using the club's website or social media platforms.
Wakawaka Walkers is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia. The club acknowledges and respects the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land where they walk. They pay tribute to the elders past, present, and future and recognise their ongoing connexion to culture, country, and community.
One of the main benefits of joining Wakawaka Walkers is the opportunity to improve overall health and happiness through regular walking. Walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. In addition, walking regularly can help manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduce the risk of developing some cancers, maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
The club also offers Personal Walking Plans, which are designed to help individuals feel healthier and happier in just six weeks. These plans are provided for free and offer guidance and support to those who want to incorporate walking into their daily routine.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to Wakawaka Walkers' structured and supportive walking programme. This programme complements the professional care provided by healthcare providers and helps patients meet national physical activity guidelines. The programme offers both individual and group walking options, allowing patients to choose the option that suits them best.
Testimonies from members, such as Maria, highlight the positive impact that walking has had on their lives. Maria was able to overcome weight-related health issues, including diabetes and blood pressure problems, through regular walking. She started with just 5,000 steps a day and eventually increased to 15,000 steps a day, successfully improving her overall physical and mental health.
To become a part of the Wakawaka Walkers community, individuals can join the club's Facebook group. The club's social media platforms provide additional information about how to join, frequently asked questions, and details on how to donate. Wakawaka Walkers is committed to promoting a healthier heart and encouraging connexions within the community through walking.