The strength of walking together

The strength of walking together

Has your treadmill started collecting dust?


Finding it impossible to make time for new friends?


Telling yourself you need to get outside more? 


Consider joining a walking group! And no, they aren’t just for middle-aged ladies. Walking groups have been around for decades, and they’re becoming increasingly popular with all gender and ages. Not only are the health benefits numerous (reduced body fat, blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol levels), but the friendships you make can likely be the reason you continue to hit your health goals. 


Sense of community 


From her blog post at teapartygirl.com, Sonya Michelle is one walker who expresses her gratitude for her group and her fears of initially joining as an introverted person. Their weekly morning walks turned into birthday celebrations, movie outings, and weekend tea on the back porches that she feels is central to her mental health and well-being. She felt surprised at how simple 5km walks around her neighbourhood could turn into a sisterhood that made her feel belonging in life. 


Consistency & new knowledge 


Studies have shown that walking groups promote and sustain consistent exercise behaviour with high levels of adherence. Sonya shares that her shared walk time keeps her accountable to exercise while also becoming a space to learn new knowledge, skills, expertise, and resources from others. Walking groups within your community can introduce you to connections to people from all generations and experiences and broaden your view of your world. 


How can I join? 


Walking groups can be found online, in community poster boards…or started by word-of-mouth yourself! Use this tips: 


  1. Look for local Facebook groups. Enter your city name or local area and there may be groups already made. Be proactive and reach out within the group to find those closer in your area. 


  1. Check your community postering boards. Local recreation centres, the library and your city’s official website can have opportunities for walking groups. 


  1. Start a group yourself. Have any neighbours or friends you think would be interested? Shoot them a text or knock on their door. Start with one person – you can grow over time at your own choice! 



Walking groups can be looked down upon especially in our modern world of productivity and digitalization. But by this way of life, it disconnects us from each other and takes away our gratitude for the simple joys of living.


Don’t be afraid to try something new – you might be surprised what walking could do for you.  



References:

  1. Hanson, S., & Jones, A. (2015). Is there evidence that walking groups have health benefits? A systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(11), 710–715. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2014-094157

  2. Hanson, S., Guell, C., & Jones, A. (2016). Walking groups in socioeconomically deprived communities: A qualitative study using photo elicitation. Health & Place, 39, 26–33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2016.02.007

  3. Michelle, S. (2024, November 28). Finding friendship and connection one step at a time: The joy of a walking group. Tea Party Girl. https://teapartygirl.com/the-joy-of-a-walking-group/

 

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