Walking Groups in Nanaimo

Did you know that daily walks are actually one of the best medicines around?

Whether you’re taking your first steps back to fitness or looking for new walking companions, every step truly counts when it comes to healthy aging.

Small Steps, Big Health Rewards

Walking can reduce high blood pressure, help with lower-back pain, and has even been shown to ease depression.

Research also shows that walking decreases the risk or severity of stroke, type 2 diabetes, while also improving mental well-being, sleep, and longevity.

One of the bests part about walking? It can also be a social activity! Nanaimo offers wonderful opportunities to make walking social, safe, and fun:

Nanaimo Walking Groups & Classes

While you can always just go to local park or stroll around the neighborhood, it might be nice to join a walking group.

Here are some fantastic local resources to help you find your perfect walking group:

Sole Sisters 🚶🏽‍♀️

A wonderful walking group specifically designed for women 50+ in the Oceanside area.

This group focuses on fitness, friendship, and fun, and host group walks on Wednesday mornings from Sept to June.

Learn more: arrowsmithrecreation.ca/sole-sisters

Bastion City Wanderers 🥾

This friendly Nanaimo walking and hiking club organizes group walks every Saturday.

Whether you’re looking for gentle neighborhood strolls or more adventurous trails, they welcome walkers of all abilities and provide a great way to explore our beautiful area with like-minded people.

Learn more: bastioncitywanderers.ca

Nanaimo Day Hikes Meetup 🚶

An open, welcoming group that meets regularly for hikes around the Nanaimo area.

Perfect for those who enjoy exploring local trails and meeting new people while staying active.

Check their meetup page for upcoming walks and difficulty levels.

Learn more: meetup.com/nanaimo-day-hikes-meetup

TAPS (Nanaimo Family Life Assoc.)

TAPS (Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors) is a friendly organization space where seniors can connect, stay active, and feel valued.

They offer a variety of programs including walking groups.

Learn more here: nflabc.org/programs/taps

Nanaimo Parks & Recreation 🏞️

Offering various walking classes (like Nordic walking with poles) and sessions designed for every ability level.

They organize both indoor and outdoor options, making it perfect for year-round participation regardless of the weather.

Learn more: nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture

It’s Time to Get Moving!

Worried that walking might worsen joint pain? The opposite is true.

Walking can help protect the joints and benefit people with arthritis due to its ability to alleviate joint pain and stiffness while strengthening the muscles in your legs.

Plus, when you’re feeling tired, going for a walk can be an effective energy boost by increasing oxygen flow through the body and elevating energy-regulating hormones.