Walking Groups

In 2017, On My Feet launched its first walking group at St Patrick’s Community Centre in Fremantle, Western Australia. The idea behind the program was to provide an introduction into On My Feet, focussing on providing clients of homeless shelters and community organisations with an avenue to improve their physical and mental health through light exercise and socialisation with volunteers.

How do they work?

On My Feet’s walking groups are established in cooperation with homeless shelters and support centres to provide residents and visitors an outlet through exercise and socialisation. The group typically meets outside the designated shelter or centre with volunteers then leading participants on a light walk.

Walking is a fantastic way to break down barriers of social conversation and allow participants to feel more comfortable interacting in a group setting. Participants are never forced to talk or complete any of the activities. It is the positive and inclusive spirit of the group which drives involvement and development.

Each group will stop during the session to complete some stretching and light body-weight or resistance exercises. With music in the background and demonstrations from volunteers, this component of the session is a fun way to increase the heart rate whilst emphasising learning and having a go.

The sessions conclude with perhaps the most powerful component. A coffee or drink as a group at a local café.

By this stage, the group has warmed up physically and are more willing to open-up to volunteers. It is a time to share stories, experiences, challenges and opportunities whilst indulging in one on the house!

Locations

• Fremantle
  Meeting point at St Patrick’s Community Centre | Every Monday | 8.30am – 9.15am
• East Perth
  Meeting point at The Beacon Shelter | Every Tuesday | 7.30am – 8.15am
• East Perth
  Meeting point at Ngulla Mia | Every Wednesday | 7.30am – 8.15am
• Melbourne CBD
  Meeting point at Fitzroy Gardens | Every Friday | 5.30pm – 6.45pm