Walking Talking is a welcoming and inclusive sports club located in the Meander Valley Council area, specifically in Deloraine, Tasmania. The club focuses on the sport of walking and offers a range of benefits for its members.
Led by the passionate walk organiser, Debbie, the group meets twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 9:00 am. The walks typically last between 45 to 60 minutes and are conducted at a medium pace, suitable for individuals of various fitness levels. Currently, the group consists of 14 members, fostering a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
One of the great features of Walking Talking is its dog-friendly nature. Participants are encouraged to bring along their furry friends to enjoy the exercise and social interaction. However, it is important to note that the walk may not be suitable for prams or wheelchairs due to the terrain and nature of the trails.
The group's meeting point is at Deloraine House, located at 112 Emu Bay Road in Deloraine. This central location provides convenient access for participants from the surrounding areas. Those interested in joining the group can easily find it on a map and navigate their way to the meeting point.
In addition to the regular walks, Walking Talking is also affiliated with other nearby walking groups, such as the DCH Walkers in Devonport, the Community House Hearties in Latrobe, and the Limilinaturi Walking Group in Devonport. Being part of this network allows members to explore different walking routes and participate in various walking events throughout the region.
Walking Talking is proudly supported by the National Heart Foundation of Australia and aligns with their mission to promote heart health and physical activity. The club emphasises the benefits of walking, showcasing it as a “wonder drug” that can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular walking also helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, as well as maintain bone density and improve balance and coordination.
The club extends its services to healthcare professionals who can refer patients to the structured and supportive walking programme. This programme complements the care provided by healthcare professionals and helps patients meet national physical activity guidelines. By joining Walking Talking, patients can receive the necessary support and motivation to improve their physical health while enjoying the camaraderie of a community.
Real-life success stories from members, like Maria, highlight the transformative power of walking. She was able to overcome weight issues, diabetes, and blood pressure problems by gradually increasing her daily walking steps. Witnessing the positive impact of walking on her overall mental and physical health, Maria strongly advocates for joining the walking community.
For more information and to become part of the Walking Talking community, individuals can join the Facebook group, where they can access additional resources, connect with other members, and stay updated with the latest news and events. The club also provides a comprehensive FAQ section on their website and offers opportunities for donations to support their initiatives.
By prioritising the health and well-being of its members, Walking Talking aims to create a vibrant and supportive walking community within the Meander Valley Council area. Whether one is looking to improve fitness, enjoy nature, or simply meet new people, this sports club offers an ideal platform for achieving these goals.