For individuals living in Atlanta, Georgia, one way to stay fit is by joining a walking club. These clubs offer weekly or monthly group walks through various sections of Atlanta. The walks are typically free of charge, but most offer memberships. Walking clubs can help you stay active while also allowing you to enjoy a social experience.
Features
The Walking Club of Georgia, the only club in Georgia sanctioned by the USA Track and Field, formed in 1987. The majority of the members live in the Atlanta area. This club welcomes all fitness walkers, hikers, and race walkers, regardless of experience and fitness level.
Schedule
Many of the walking clubs in the Atlanta area offer weekly and monthly organized walks around the greater Atlanta area. In addition to runners, the Atlanta Singles Running Organization welcomes walkers. On the first Sunday of the month, this group organizes walks around Power's Ferry Chattahoochee River. This course is an off-road loop that is well suited for walkers. It features a water fountain and bathroom. In addition to this monthly walk, the organization offers Monday evening runs.
The Walking Club of Georgia hosts walks every evening during the week and on Sunday mornings. Sunday morning walks meet at 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. in Brookhaven. The evening walks begin at 6:00 p.m. and meet at various locations throughout Midtown.
Benefits
By participating in one of the many walking clubs around Atlanta, individuals of all ages and abilities reap numerous health benefits. According to the Mayo Clinic, walking can help you lower your LDL, which is your bad cholesterol, raise your HDL, or good cholesterol, lower your blood pressure, manage your weight, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, a walking club allows you to get in a little social interaction while working out.
Walks
The most common location for organized walks of the Walking Club of Georgia is the Silver Comet Trail. This popular multi-use trail is paved and runs from Smyrna all the way to the Alabama state line. This route winds through neighborhoods, under bridges, and along forests.
Cost
None of the Atlanta walking clubs require dues, yet most offer memberships. As of 2010, the Walking Club of Georgia annually costs $24 for individuals and $29 for families. Being a member allows individuals to host walks, be involved in event planning, attend social activities, and access the club roster.
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