Study backs benefits of The Man Walk

The preliminary findings from a Charles Sturt University study into The Man Walk have not surprised one vocal advocate who has seen the benefits firsthand for more than six years.

The Man Walk Redcliffe’s Denis Brennan says the findings validate what he, and his fellow Man Walkers, have noticed from the beginning – walking and talking improves men’s mental and physical health, and builds lasting connections.

The organisation’s founder Mark Burns started The Man Walk in Kiama, New South Wales, in 2019.

It has since expanded to involve more than 130,000 men in 87 locations across the world.

Redcliffe’s group, which has been going for more than six years, is the biggest, holding three walks a week with more than 130 men taking part most weeks.

“I’ve noticed how good our walk is. I knew that. The camaraderie that has come out of this walk is unbelievable,” Denis says.

“They (the men) help each other. That’s the good part about it. A lot of people don’t like to talk about their problems but, when they start talking with the boys, they don’t get embarrassed about anything.”

The Charles Sturt University study, titled A Snapshot of the Man Walk, surveyed 279 men.

Participants overwhelmingly agreed that The Man Walk “positively impacts their mental and physical health” (97.4 per cent and 97.1 per cent respectively) and “fosters social connections (99.3 per cent)”.

Participants joined The Man Walk for social connection, mental health support and coping with life transitions. Positive outcomes included improved mental and physical health, enhanced social interaction and personal growth.

“Longer involvement in The Man Walk is associated with reduced odds of depression, underscoring the potential long-term benefits of sustained participation,” the report says.

Thirty-seven per cent reported experiencing social loneliness at an intense level before joining The Man Walk.

“Many participants report significant improvements in their mental and physical health since joining The Man Walk. Walking and socialising have helped alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD while also promoting physical fitness,” the report says.

Secret to success

Denis believes the concept’s simplicity is a winning formula.

One revelation about The Man Walk’s impact did, however, surprise him. The initiative saves the government money.

A spokeswoman from The Man Walk says cost savings to the government are $5.20 per kilometre walked.

“With an average of 50 walkers, walking about 5km three times a week, The Man Walk Redcliffe represents about $3900 per week in preventative health savings (based on equivalent data from New South Wales),” she says.

Denis would love to see The Man Walk spread further throughout regional Queensland, with support from the State Government.

There are nine locations in Queensland including Redcliffe, Beachmere, Caboolture, Narangba and Newport.

“The Man Walk is not only saving people’s lives, but it is saving governments money as well,” he says.

To find out more, visit the website or search The Man Walk Redcliffe on Facebook.