The Man Walk expands with new group in Lara

A GRASSROOTS movement aimed at improving men’s physical and mental health has reached Lara, with The Man Walk launching its latest group in the region.

Founded in Kiama five years ago by Mark Burns, The Man Walk started as a simple morning routine.

Struggling with late nights and poor habits, Burns decided to take early walks around Kiama Harbour.

What began as a solo effort soon attracted friends, and before long, a group of about 15 men were regularly walking together.

“We just found there was great power in starting the day right with better connections and a bit of a walk and talk,” Mr Burns said.

The movement quickly spread. A friend who moved to Wollongong asked to start a walk there, and soon, interest grew beyond New South Wales.

A viral social media post in late 2019 reached 1.4 million people overnight, propelling The Man Walk into national prominence.

Today, there are 84 walks across Australia, as well as groups in the UK, Japan, and New Zealand.

Geelong was one of the first places outside Kiama to adopt The Man Walk, joining in 2019.

Torquay followed soon after, and now a group has launched in Lara, meeting weekly for free, casual walks.

“Our new website makes it even easier for people to find their closest walk,” Mr Burns said.

“It will geolocate you and show how far you are from the nearest Man Walk, including times and starting points.”

There are no sign-ups, fees, or memberships, just a welcoming space for men to walk, talk, and support each other.

Each local group has its own Facebook page, where participants can connect and find more details.

For more information, head to themanwalk.com.au