Volkssporting originated in Europe during the 1960s as
an athletic activity
for people of all ages and abilities. Events included
walking, biking, swimming and
cross-country skiing. But walking or volksmarching
became a particular
favorite among American military personnel stationed in
Germany. Many of the
enthusiasts put together their own clubs and events
after they returned to
the States, igniting a volksmarching boom that led to
more than 400,000
people participating in American Volkssport Association
(AVA) events last
year.
Ten kilometers is the standard length of a
volksmarching trail. Some
events include a 5 kilometer walk for newcomers, or
people with physical
disabilities. Many walks are held on weekends, though
weekday and weeknight
events are not uncommon. Awards are often offered,
which may include
distinctive patches, pins, or other unusual items.
The cost of these awards range between $6 - $8.
Many volksmarchers carry logbooks or "walking diaries,"
which are stamped by
sponsors after every event. The stamp records the
accomplishment and the
distance walked. Patches can also be earned to signify
participation in a
march. Often, people will cover their favorite walking
jackets with the
colorful patches. The fee for this is $3.00. Or you can walk for
FREE!!
For walkers who can't make the weekend events,
year-round trails are available
in all 50 states. They traverse everything from large
urban areas to small
country towns and abandoned railway lines.
Most of the avid walkers belong to AVA- sanctioned
volksmarching clubs.
Different clubs have different agendas. Some clubs walk
on weekdays, some
organize events monthly, and some like to take bus
trips.
Walking is one of the best ways to stay fit
without spending a lot of money. Walking clubs give you
someone to walk
with, so you're not concerned about your safety. You'll
get fit and develop
friendships, and even though it's noncompetitive,
having your logbook
stamped gives you a sense of accomplishment.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
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For
Arizona walking information
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Club
Listing for ARIZONA
American Volkssport
Association
1001 Pat Booker Road, Suite 101
Universal City, TX 78148
(210) 659-2112
Fax (210) 659-1212
Information Line:
1-800-830-WALK
avahq@ava.org
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National Sponsor:
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