Did you know that Whole Body Health and Wellness runs walking clubs in Geelong and Ocean Grove?
We asked our Exercise Physiologist Sarah, what are the benefits of walking and how joining a walking group can help you!
What are the benefits of walking?
Walking is accessible and considered to be a low-risk physical exercise. When you engage in walking as a form of exercise, you are carrying your own bodyweight. When using your bodyweight as part of physical activity, it is known as weight-bearing exercise. Some of the benefits include:
- increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness
- reduced risk of heart disease and stroke
- improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes
- stronger bones and improved balance
- increased muscle strength and endurance
- reduced body fat.
What are the benefits of walking with others?
What does the research tell us? Research has shown that walking with others, particularly in a walking group provides a wide range of health benefits and is a simple, practical way to encourage physical activity. They also have the added benefit of increased motivation, and it can even be an enjoyable social occasion!
The verdict? Walking groups are worth it! People in the groups were more likely to show improvements in blood pressure, heart rate, body fat, fitness and walking speed, among other benefits. Depression was also lower among walkers compared to people who didn’t participate.
Are you inspired to join a walking group?
Are you looking for a group to join? Whole Body Health and Wellness has two walking groups that are free to join! We cater to all fitness levels with a slower, shorter option (30 minutes) and a longer faster-paced option (an additional 30 minutes). Our walking clubs are run by a qualified health practitioner who will provide tips and support along the way.
Our walking group in Manifold Heights runs on Mondays at 10 am. It starts and finishes at the clinic (2A Roxby Street) and is run by Exercise Physiologist Sarah Healy. You can book online for this group HERE
Our walking group in Ocean Grove will be starting on the 7th of February and will be taken by one of our qualified health practitioners. This session will run on Fridays at 10:30 am at High Tide Yoga & Movement (73 The Esplanade). You can book your spot online HERE
