How to start a walking group in your neighbourhood

Neighbours in Unley have started a weekly walking group that meets at 7am Tuesdays on the Adelaide Linear Park trail near the Frome Road entrance.

Interest in local group fitness has grown since the Botanic Gardens parkrun expanded its Saturday sessions to include shorter walking routes last year. Many Adelaide residents now seek simple ways to exercise without gym fees or travel across town.

Pick a route and time that fits the group

The 50km Adelaide Linear Park trail offers flat sections between Hackney and Walkerville that suit beginners. Groups can also start near Glenelg beach for shorter loops along the foreshore path before heading inland. Fixed meeting spots such as the Central Market car park on Grote Street give participants a central point with parking and toilets.

Public Health data from the 2024 South Australian Physical Activity Survey showed that adults who walked with others at least twice a week met activity guidelines 35 percent more often than those exercising alone. A 2025 City of Adelaide report listed 18 active walking groups registered through local councils, with most meeting for 45 minutes.

Spread the word and keep it simple

Post notices at the Botanic Gardens parkrun registration table or leave flyers at the Central Market produce stalls. Start with no cost and a clear end time so people can test one session before committing. After three weeks the Unley group added a rotating leader list to share planning duties.

Check the City of Adelaide website for free permit details if your route crosses council land, then confirm a first meet-up date and send a reminder the day before.