Pumicestone Walkers is a sports club located in the Moreton Bay Regional area of Australia. This walking group aims to promote a healthier heart and build connexions within the community through regular walks together.
Walking for an average of 30 minutes a day has been proven to decrease the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 per cent. In addition, it helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, reduces the risk of developing certain cancers, maintains bone density, and improves balance and coordination.
The club offers a free Personal Walking Plan that helps individuals feel healthier and happier within six weeks. By joining a walking group, participants can enjoy the benefits of walking while fostering relationships and support from fellow walkers.
The Pumicestone Walkers club is a supportive and structured walking programme that complements the care provided by healthcare professionals. It allows patients to choose whether they prefer to walk alone or join a group. The programme is designed to help individuals meet the national physical activity guidelines and improve their overall well-being.
Maria, a member of the walking group, shares her success story of how she walked away from health issues such as overweight, diabetes, and blood pressure problems by gradually increasing her daily steps. She started with 5,000 steps a day and eventually reached 15,000 steps, no longer being diabetic and facing no issues with blood pressure. Maria's experience emphasises how the simplest form of exercise can have a significant positive impact on mental and physical health.
To join the walking community, individuals can join the Facebook group or search for a walking group within a specific radius of their location. The club has over 600 walking groups nationwide, providing ample opportunities for individuals to find a group near them. Getting started is easy – simply search for a walking group, register, and connect with the Walk Organiser to obtain all the necessary information.
For those interested in making a difference in their community, Pumicestone Walkers encourages individuals to become Walk Organisers. In this role, volunteers will plan walking routes, coordinate meeting places and times, and welcome new members to the group. Walk Organisers are the lifeblood of the programme, and the club provides training, online profile access, thank you gifts, and ongoing communication and event invitations to support them in leading a successful walking group.
Pumicestone Walkers is proud to be supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and is committed to promoting a healthier lifestyle through the simple act of walking. By joining this sports club and participating in regular walks, individuals can improve their own well-being while building connexions and contributing to the overall health of the community.