JOIN THE CLUB: Walks on the mild side

USUALLY when we’re told something is a walk in the park, we don’t take it literally.
But in the case of the Heart Foundation’s Green Walks, Geelongites are invited to actually take a walk in the park.
It’s a return to one of life’s simpler pleasures, with the added bonus of improving health and well being.
Two walks are on next week, one at Geelong’s Eastern Park and one at St Leonards, as part of Hello Parks Week.
The week is an annual event celebrating the important role parks play in contributing to the health of Victorian communities.
Green Walks in the Park is part of the Heart Foundation Walking program, aiming to connect communities with their parks by offering regular group walks throughout the year. And the benefits are many, especially for cardiovascular health.
Heart Foundation Victoria head Diana Heggie said the simple act of walking 30 minutes a day could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as half.
Walking in parks, bushlands and green spaces like woodland reserves also promoted emotional, mental health and well being, she said.
“Walking is great for your heart, and being outdoors with nature offers a change of pace and scenery and a chance to relax.
“Walking also offers other benefits – being active on a regular basis helps you sleep better, be more confident and improve your strength, balance and coordination.”
Ms Heggie said the walks were free, guided and suitable for all ages.
“It’s a fun and active way to spend time with family and friends in parklands and open spaces.
“Walking in green spaces, especially with others, is relaxing, healthy and a great social outing.”
Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve president Karin Shepherd will lead the St Leonards walk, enlightening participants with some history and features of the area.
“It’s a beautiful spot and it’s a bit different to other walks because it’s the only coastal woodland left on the Bellarine Peninsula,” she explained.
The Eastern Park walk is on Tuesday, with walkers to meet at Geelong Botanical Gardens’ entrance.
The St Leonards walk at Edwards Point Wildlife Reserve, 9 Beach Rd, is on Thursday, with walkers to meet at Beach Rd’s car park.
Registrations for both walks open 10am for a 10.15am start and finishing about 11.15am.