5 x 5

5×5 is a free, non-competitive community walking event for people at all levels of fitness and ability. The events take place throughout the year across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven Region. Previous 5×5 locations have included Bellambi, Wollongong, Lake Illawarra, Shell Cove, Kiama and Nowra. Participants walk and talk over a 5km course (or comfortable distance) one morning a week for 5 weeks. The 5×5 aims to:

• Provide a safe, friendly and accessible opportunity to be active.
• Build healthy walking habits to increase individual fitness and mobility.
• Support participants to reduce their risk of chronic disease.
• Support good mental health.
• Build community connections at individual and organisational levels.
• Reduce social isolation.

5×5 Body & Mind

5×5 Body & Mind is a free 6-week program, which is an iteration of the successful 5×5 walking events. The new 5×5 Body & Mind program aims to improve mental health through physical activity and healthy eating. The program starts with a workshop on moving and eating for mental health. Participants then enjoy a non-competitive walk in the subsequent weeks, where they will be supported by Health Promotion Officers and volunteers.

Tell us how you walk!

Healthy Cities Illawarra is committed to working with its partners and communities to support and improve opportunities for walking. In order to do this effectively, we would love to hear from you! Click on the link below to fill out our short walking survey here.

For more information and updates, join our online 5×5 Community Group Page

Click here to register for 5×5 events coming up in Bellambi, The Lake & Calderwood Valley.