Dust off your walking shoes, Heart Foundation Walking groups have recommenced on the North Coast following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
The walking groups are a great way for people to exercise regularly, create new social networks and look after their physical and mental health.
Everyone participating will need to keep 1.5 metres apart, practise good hand hygiene and cough etiquette, bring their own water bottles and towels, and stay home if unwell.
There are nearly 270 walking groups in New South Wales and more than 1,100 nationwide. The Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) coordinates a number of Heart Foundation Walking groups between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.
Local area coordinator and health promotion officer Maryann Anderson said there were many reasons why walking for pleasure is one of the most popular activities in Australia.
“Walking for an average of 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40 per cent,” Ms Anderson said.
Walking regularly has also been proven to manage weight, blood pressure and cholesterol. It reduces the risk of developing some cancers, maintains bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. It can also improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and other injuries.
All adults aged 18-64 years should aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week. That’s five 30-minute walks a week. Activity is considered ‘moderate’ if it takes some effort but you’re still able to talk comfortably.
The North Coast walking groups meet on different days. For more details and to find a group near you, click here.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we live and work, the Bundjalung, Arakwal, Yaegl, Gumbaynggirr, Githabul, Dunghutti and Birpai Nations, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to elders past, present and future.
