How to Start a Walking Group in Your Neighbourhood

More than 80% of Central Coast residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park or beach, making it an ideal location to start a neighbourhood walking group.

The benefits of walking groups are well-documented, and with the recent heatwave affecting the region, it's more important than ever to stay active while also looking after our health. As the Central Coast experiences increased temperatures, residents are looking for ways to stay cool and healthy, and walking groups offer a low-cost and accessible solution. With many residents already using the Gosford to Terrigal beach path and Bouddi National Park hikes for exercise, starting a walking group can be a great way to meet like-minded people and explore new areas.

In the Central Coast, organisations such as the Central Coast Council and the Heart Foundation are already supporting community fitness initiatives. For example, the Central Coast Council's 'Active Transport' program encourages residents to walk, cycle or use public transport for trips under 3km, and the Heart Foundation's 'Walking' program provides resources and support for people to start their own walking groups. Local surf lifesaving clubs, such as those at Avoca and Terrigal, also offer a range of fitness programs and events that can be a great way to meet new people and get active. Additionally, the Tuggerah Lake cycling path is a popular spot for walkers and cyclists alike, and could be a great location for a walking group to meet and explore.

Getting Started

According to a recent survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 64% of adults in the Central Coast region engage in some form of physical activity, with walking being the most popular activity. With an average of 292 days of sunshine per year, the Central Coast is an ideal location to start a walking group. To get started, it's recommended to choose a safe and accessible route, such as the footpaths along The Entrance Road or the shared path along Tuggerah Lake. It's also important to consider the time of day and week that works best for your group, with many walking groups meeting early in the morning or during lunch breaks. The cost of starting a walking group is minimal, with most groups requiring no more than a pair of comfortable shoes and some water, making it an accessible activity for people of all ages and fitness levels.

In terms of next steps, residents can start by talking to their neighbours and friends to gauge interest in a walking group. They can also contact local organisations, such as the Central Coast Council or the Heart Foundation, for support and resources. With the average cost of gym membership in the Central Coast being around $50 per week, walking groups offer a free and fun alternative to traditional exercise programs. By starting a walking group in your neighbourhood, you can get active, meet new people and explore local streets, all while improving your health and wellbeing. As the Central Coast continues to grow and develop, it's likely that we'll see more community fitness events and group exercise programs popping up around the region, making it an exciting time to get involved and start a walking group in your neighbourhood.