The Warrane Pharmacy Walking Group is a sports club located in Hobart, Australia. As a part of the National Heart Foundation of Australia, the club is proudly supported by healthcare professionals and aims to promote heart health and physical activity in the community.
The walking group offers a free Personal Walking Plan that helps participants feel healthier and happier in just six weeks. By walking regularly, individuals can lower their risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. In addition, walking can help manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduce the risk of developing certain cancers, maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to the structured and supportive walking programme provided by the club. The programme complements the care given by healthcare professionals and helps individuals meet the national physical activity guidelines. Whether people want to walk alone or in a group, the programme offers motivation and guidance to improve overall health.
The club has a strong emphasis on community connexions. Walking together allows individuals to build connexions and support each other in their journey towards a healthier heart. With over 600 walking groups nationwide, participants can search for a group within a certain radius of their location and easily find one in their area. The club provides a platform for people to join and create walking groups, led by volunteer Walk Organisers.
These organisers plan the group's walking routes and meeting places, welcome new members, and provide all the necessary information to get started.
Anyone who is over 18 years old and is friendly, enthusiastic, and welcoming can become a Volunteer Walk Organiser for the club. They will receive training, access to an online profile to manage their group, ongoing communication, and invitations to events and workshops. Additionally, participants can join the Walker Recognition Scheme to be rewarded for their commitment to walking.
Overall, the Warrane Pharmacy Walking Group encourages individuals to join their walking community, improve their heart health, and enjoy the numerous physical and mental benefits of walking.