Dedicate time to planning and leading walks. Comfortable using technology and managing an online profile. Have good communication skills and able to engage with a diverse range of people. Committed to promoting the benefits of walking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Western Walkers is a sports club based in Sydney dedicated to promoting regular walking as a means of improving cardiovascular health and overall well-being. As part of the National Heart Foundation of Australia's walking programme, Western Walkers aims to create a supportive and inclusive community where individuals can come together to enjoy the numerous benefits of walking.
The club offers a variety of walking groups in the Western suburbs of Sydney, providing opportunities for members to connect with like-minded individuals and walk towards a healthier heart together. Whether participants prefer to walk alone or in a group setting, Western Walkers' motivational programme is designed to help individuals meet the national physical activity guidelines while receiving the support and guidance they need.
Walking has been proven to be an effective way to manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 percent. Additionally, regular walking can help maintain bone density, improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
The club welcomes individuals of all ages and fitness levels to join their walking community. By joining Western Walkers, members can access a range of resources and support, including personalised walking plans to help them reach their health goals. The club also encourages healthcare professionals to refer their patients to the structured and supportive walking programme as a complement to their care.
For those interested in becoming more involved, Western Walkers offers the opportunity to lead a Heart Foundation Walk. As a Walk Organiser, individuals can plan walking routes, determine meeting times and locations, and welcome new members to their group. Walk Organisers play a vital role in the success of the programme and receive training, ongoing communications, and invitations to events and workshops.
By joining Western Walkers, individuals not only improve their own health outcomes but also contribute to the larger goal of reducing heart disease and promoting a healthier community. The club is proud to be supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and is dedicated to acknowledging and respecting the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land where they operate.
To get started with Western Walkers, interested individuals can search for a walking group near their location, register for their chosen group, and contact the Walk Organiser for more information. The club also offers the opportunity for individuals to start their own walking group, providing training and support to ensure the success of the initiative.
Walking is the simplest form of exercise that can have a profound impact on overall mental and physical health, as Maria, a group walker, experienced firsthand. Western Walkers invites individuals to join their walking community and take steps towards a healthier heart.