Maryborough CH Walkers is a sports club located in the Central Goldfields Shire in Australia. This club focuses on promoting the benefits of walking for physical and mental health. They are proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia.
The club offers a variety of services and activities to encourage walking and build connexions within the community. One of their main offerings is personal walking plans, which are designed to help individuals improve their health and happiness in just six weeks. These plans are provided for free and aim to make walking a regular part of participants' lives.
In addition to personal walking plans, Maryborough CH Walkers has a strong emphasis on walking groups. They believe that walking together as a community can lead to a healthier heart. They encourage individuals to search for a walking group within a specific radius of their location. By joining a walking group, participants can enjoy the benefits of walking while also fostering social connexions.
The club highlights the numerous benefits of walking. Regular walking has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. It also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduces the risk of certain cancers, improves bone density and balance, and enhances coordination. Maryborough CH Walkers aims to create awareness about the benefits of walking and encourage individuals to make it a part of their daily routine.
Maryborough CH Walkers also works closely with healthcare professionals. They have developed a structured and supportive walking programme that complements the care provided by healthcare professionals. This programme can be tailored to individuals' needs, whether they prefer to walk alone or in a group. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer their patients to this programme to help them meet national physical activity guidelines.
The story of Maria, a group walker in the club, is shared to inspire others. Maria was overweight for more than 40 years and developed diabetes and blood pressure problems. However, by starting with a goal of walking 5,000 steps a day and gradually increasing it to 15,000 steps a day, she was able to improve her overall health. Her success showcases how even the simplest form of exercise, like walking, can have a profound impact on mental and physical health.
Maryborough CH Walkers has a strong online presence, with a Facebook group where members can join the walking community. They also provide resources for healthcare professionals and have a detailed FAQ section to address any queries. Additionally, the club recognises the efforts of walkers through their Walker Recognition Scheme, which rewards participants for their dedication to walking.
For those interested in starting their own walking group, Maryborough CH Walkers provides the opportunity to become a volunteer Walk Organiser. These volunteers play a vital role in planning and leading walking routes, welcoming new members, and organising group activities. Walk Organisers receive training, access to an online profile, thank you gifts, ongoing communications, and invitations to events and workshops.
In summary, Maryborough CH Walkers is a sports club that promotes the benefits of walking for physical and mental health. Through personal walking plans, walking groups, and partnerships with healthcare professionals, this club aims to create a supportive and inclusive community that prioritises regular physical activity.