How to Start a Walking Group in Your Neighbourhood

Every Saturday at 8am, a dozen walkers gather at the western end of Terrigal Beach, lacing up their runners for a brisk hour along the new Gosford-Terrigal path. These locals didn’t know each other until March this year, when flyers pinned up at the Scout Hall and a handful of Instagram posts brought them together for the first Terrigal Saturday Walkers meet-up.

Why neighbours are stepping up

Interest in group exercise is soaring across the Central Coast, according to recent membership spikes at local fitness clubs. Health professionals also point to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data released last quarter, which showed the region’s physical inactivity rate at 27%—higher than the national average. Social walking clubs are part of the response, offering a free, low-pressure alternative for those finding gyms intimidating or too expensive.

With winter finally easing, more Coasties are itching to get outside. But for many, going solo can be daunting or dull. It’s not just about the calories: Dr Alice Matheson, a sports medicine registrar in Gosford, says, “people are more likely to stick with an exercise routine if it feels social and they have a sense of commitment to a group.”

Getting underway on the Coast

There are half a dozen regular community walk groups already operating from Avoca Surf Life Saving Club to the bustling esplanades around The Entrance. The Central Coast Heart Foundation Walking group, one of the oldest in the area, has walked the same Tuggerah Lake circuit every Tuesday for over a decade, typically attracting 20–35 walkers across all ages and fitness levels. Those looking to start something new have plenty of local inspiration.

Begin by picking a safe, accessible route that finishes near plentiful parking, public toilets, or a coffee spot. Terrigal Beach, Lions Park in Woy Woy, and the scenic Bouddi National Park trails are favourites. Make sure the path is wide enough for groups, and be mindful of local rules—no dogs are permitted on some Bouddi tracks. Organisers often use free tools like Facebook groups, MeetUp, or even handwritten flyers at IGA or the Terrigal library noticeboard. "We started with just three people and a photocopied flyer on the kiosk noticeboard," said one group founder at Avoca Beach—"By week five, we had sixteen."

It’s worth noting that public liability insurance isn’t required for informal gatherings, but if your group is run through an official organisation like the Heart Foundation, members are often covered during events. For those wanting to combine fitness with fundraising or awareness, local groups have teamed up with Cancer Council NSW and the Central Coast Division of General Practice in the past for special step-counting charity walks.

By the numbers—and what happens next

National participation in walking groups has risen 11% year-on-year, according to Sport Australia’s Active Lives survey released this May; on the Central Coast, Heart Foundation data shows that group numbers jumped from 32 to 48 registered walks since 2023, with Tuesday and Saturday mornings proving especially popular. Organisers say starting costs are almost nil—a few minutes online and some club spirit are all it takes.

If you’re thinking of launching a group this winter, start small. Post about your plans in local Facebook groups ("Terrigal Living" or "Central Coast Community Noticeboard" both have thousands of members), set a regular time and place, and have a wet-weather plan. Council recommends sticking to well-loved routes with good lighting and accessible footpaths, and encourage members to bring water, layers, and a sense of humour for those unpredictable July mornings.

For details about existing walks, visit the Heart Foundation’s walking website, or check noticeboards at The Entrance Library, Avoca Surf Club, or SeaFM’s online What’s On section. If you’re feeling isolated, unfit, or simply ready for a change, you’re far from alone. Neighbourhood walking groups may be the simplest way to put some healthy steps—and friendships—into your week.