Stockland Walkers is a sports club in Townsville that offers a weekly walking group for community members. The group meets three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6:45 am. The walks last for approximately 45–60 minutes and are conducted at a medium pace.
The club currently has 326 members and welcomes individuals who are interested in improving their fitness and overall health through walking. The walks are not dog or pram/wheelchair friendly, and participants are expected to meet at the Stockland Townsville Shopping Centre's ground level car park entrance.
The club is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and encourages individuals to join for the numerous benefits of walking. Regular walking has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. It also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as reduces the risk of developing certain cancers.
In addition to the physical benefits, walking also improves bone density, balance, coordination, and mental well-being. The club aims to build connexions within the community and create a supportive environment for members to walk towards a healthier heart together.
The club also offers personal walking plans that help individuals feel healthier and happier in just six weeks. Healthcare professionals can refer patients to the club's structured and supportive walking programme, which complements their care and helps patients meet national physical activity guidelines.
Testimonials from group members, such as Maria, highlight the positive impact of walking on overall health and well-being. Maria was able to overcome weight issues, diabetes, and blood pressure problems through regular walking. She started with 5,000 steps a day and eventually increased to 15,000 steps a day, experiencing significant improvements in her health.
For further information or to join the Stockland Walkers sports club, individuals can visit the club's social media page and contact the organiser. The club's Facebook group provides updates and serves as a platform for members to connect and support each other on their walking journey.