A WIDELY promoted fact is regular exercise has a positive impact on your mental health. It’s the motivation of scheduling the regular activity that can be the biggest hurdle with this goal.
Finding a group with the common goal of exercise has enormous advantages in achieving the hardest part of exercising – turning up.
Men’s Walk & Talk Hervey Bay recently achieved 300 walks, providing over 400 men in just over two years that safe and welcoming environment that focuses on two recognised elements to improve your wellness - walking and conversations.
Founder of the group, Shane Bradbury, understands that “personal crossroads” feeling as we age and reaching that point “where the zest for active sports begins to clash with the realities of aging, alongside the mounting pressures of family and business commitments.”
"I found myself in a more sedentary role, craving not just physical activity but the kind of genuine, social interaction that once effortlessly surrounded team sports. This collective realisation was the catalyst for our walking group,” says Shane. Shane describes the simple transformations he sees in the men from a walk.
He says "As we gather at the start of our walks, there is a blend of emotions. Some members arrive charged with excitement, eager to escape the confines of home or work and revel in the camaraderie. Others approach more quietly, carrying the weight of recent challenges, while a few might secretly wish for just a few more moments of sleep or the comfort of their couch."
“Yet, regardless of the initial sentiment, a tangible shift occurs as we tread along our beautiful esplanade or, tide permitting, the beach. The walk becomes a journey for many—some find solace in sharing their burdens, laughter bubbles up over jokes and sports banter, and by the journey’s end, there’s a sense of upliftment and satisfaction pervades.”
The combination of social interaction with physical activity for all ages has an undeniable positive impact.
“Beyond the physical strides, these walks are a safe space for sharing life’s triumphs and trials, underscoring the reality that no one has to face their challenges in isolation. It’s common for men to grapple with expressing their vulnerabilities, often hindered by societal stigmas.”
“This collective journey of sharing, listening, and moving forward together is a powerful tool for mental resilience and well-being.”
Shane says there have been inspiring stories from the walkers that have acknowledged their need for the group support.
“In moments of personal crisis, such as relationship difficulties or family tragedies, our group has stood as a pillar of support. Offering a listening ear and understanding heart, we’ve shown that sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness can dramatically brighten someone’s day”, says Shane.
The group has been involved with community groups and volunteering for events such as Hervey Bay 100. Recently they also facilitated access for community members to a mental health first aid course which has equipped them with important skills.
Men’s Walk & Talk Hervey Bay gather Tuesday afternoons 5:15pm and Thursday mornings 6am from outside the Hervey Bay Surf Life Saving Club. They can be found on their Facebook page or website www.menswalkherveybay.com.au
