Dust off your walking shoes and exercise regularly … with friends

Jun 19, 2020
This article was published 4 years ago.

Heart Foundation Walking groups will resume in the Coffs Harbour area this weekend following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Everyone participating in the community walking groups will need to keep 1.5m apart, practise good hand hygiene and cough etiquette, bring their own water bottles and towels, and stay home if unwell.  

The Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) coordinates Heart Foundation Walking groups in Coffs Harbour, Nambucca Heads and Bellingen.

Local area coordinator and Health Promotion Officer Maryann Anderson said walking groups offer great opportunities for people to exercise regularly, create new social networks and look after their physical and mental health.

“There are many reasons why walking for pleasure is one of the most popular activities in Australia,” Ms Anderson said. “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.”

Walking regularly has also been proven to manage weight, blood pressure and cholesterol, reduce your risk of developing some cancers, maintain bone density and reduce your risk of osteoporosis and fractures, improve balance and coordination, and reduce your 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 walking groups meet on different days and include the Urunga Dolphins, Macksville Movers and Stroll Patrol who all welcome new members. For more details, visit the Heart Foundation Walking website at: https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au

Walking groups will also resume in the Macleay with participants meeting on different days in Kempsey, South West Rocks, Yarrahappinni and Gladstone. Refer to the website for details.

Port Macquarie=Hastings walkers are also invited to get back in step with the health program.

Several walking groups meet in Port Macquarie, Wauchope and Laurieton on different days and are supported by Heart Foundation Walking.

These groups include Stepping Out, Happy Feet Walkers, Morning Movers and Smart Hearts who all welcome new members. For more details, visit the Heart Foundation Walking website at: https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au

 

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