Murrurundi Walkers is a sports club located in the Upper Hunter Shire Council area of Australia. This community-based club is dedicated to promoting a healthier lifestyle through the activity of walking. The club is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and aims to help individuals improve their physical and mental health by engaging in regular walking activities.
The main focus of Murrurundi Walkers is to build connexions within the local community and encourage members to walk towards a healthier heart together. Walking groups are an integral part of the club, allowing members to meet like-minded individuals and participate in group walks within a 10 km, 20 km, 25 km, 50 km, or 100 km radius of their location.
The club highlights the numerous health benefits of walking. Research has shown that walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Additionally, walking regularly can help manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of certain cancers, maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
Murrurundi Walkers also works closely with healthcare professionals, offering a structured and supportive walking programme that complements their care for patients. Whether individuals prefer to walk alone or in a group, the club's motivational programme is designed to help them meet the national physical activity guidelines and improve their overall health.
The club showcases success stories from its members, such as Maria, who “walked away from a killer. ” Maria's dedication to walking helped her overcome overweight, diabetes, and blood pressure problems. After gradually increasing her daily step count, she experienced significant improvements in her health and is no longer diabetic with no issues regarding her blood pressure.
To join the Murrurundi Walkers community, individuals can visit the club's Facebook group or search for a walking group near their location. The registration process is straightforward, and participants will receive all the necessary information from the Walk Organiser to get started. Individuals can also become Volunteer Walk Organisers to lead walking groups and contribute to the club's mission. Volunteers receive training, access to an online profile to manage their group, thank you gifts, ongoing communications, and event and workshop invitations.
Murrurundi Walkers strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals of all ages. Friendly and enthusiastic participants over the age of 18 are welcome to join the club and start their journey towards a healthier heart.