University Study Confirms the Benefits of Man Walks
A new national study has confirmed that The Man Walk — a free, community-based walking initiative — is delivering significant health and wellbeing benefits for men across Australia.
The evaluation, conducted by Charles Sturt University’s Rural Health Research Institute and led by Dr Nicole Snowdon, surveyed 377 participants and found the program’s simple model of regular group walks and open conversation is having a profound impact on men’s physical, mental and social health.
While walking for fitness is the program’s foundation, Dr Snowdon said the research shows its outcomes extend far beyond physical activity. “Participants said that walking together not only improves their physical health but also creates opportunities for conversation, emotional support and connection,” she said. “These are factors that contribute to reduced anxiety, depression and loneliness.”
The report highlights that social connection is at the heart of The Man Walk, with 73 per cent of respondents identifying socialisation as the primary benefit. Many men described reduced loneliness, strengthened friendships, and a renewed sense of belonging as key reasons for continuing to attend.
Physical and mental health improvements were also widely reported, with long-term participants experiencing the greatest gains. The study suggests the program may hold value for older men, regional communities, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, groups often identified as facing higher barriers to social participation and health support.
One participant said: “The Man Walk is simple in its concept but extremely powerful in its execution of connecting men, normalising conversations and encouraging mateship.”
The report points to persistent challenges to men’s mental health such as social isolation, emotional distress and limited engagement with traditional health services. Community-led programs like The Man Walk provide an accessible alternative, offering men a low-pressure environment to connect while being active.
Based on the results, the report recommends scaling up and better resourcing community-based initiatives that promote social connection and early intervention. It emphasises the importance of tailoring programs to vulnerable groups and ensuring they remain free, welcoming and community-driven.
The study was undertaken in March and July 2025 with The Man Walk founder Mark Burns assisting in recruitment of participants. Using a five-point scale, they were asked to comment on the following statements:
The Man Walk is good for my physical health.
The Man Walk is good for my mental health.
The Man Walk helps me meet and connect with people in my community.
They were also asked to share their reasons for attending a Man Walk, and to describe other factors such as their mental and physical status. 65% of the respondents (232) were over 55. 45% were regarded as overweight, and 39.9% were obese.
The data revealed a consistent theme: long-term engagement, social connection and mental health are deeply intertwined. “Sustained involvement helps build healthy habits and a sense of belonging.”
Men from lower socio-economic backgrounds were also more likely to walk regularly, “perhaps drawn to the program’s informal, non-clinical approach that fits well with flexible work schedules or retirement.”
To conclude, researchers said The Man Walk model “offers a promising, scalable approach to improving men’s health and wellbeing.” They recommend policymakers and practitioners invest in adopting similar, community-based initiatives.
DOWNLOAD THE FULL 54-PAGE REPORT: A SNAPSHOT OF THE MAN WALK