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Walking Club members walking in a forest trail

Our mission

Promote and organize non-competitive fitness activities that encourage lifelong fun, fitness, and friendship for all ages and abilities.

Our vision

Increasingly engage Iowans in lifelong walking and other noncompetitive physical fitness activities.

IOWA'S WALKING CLUB AT A GLANCE

Iowa's Walking Club, also known as GDMVA (Greater Des Moines Volkssporting Association)  sponsors walks based on the concept of "volkssporting." Volkssporting started in Germany and, simply defined, is a personal sports and recreation fitness program offering noncompetitive walks, hikes, bike rides, swims, and, in some regions, cross-country skiing. You choose when to participate, and participate at your own pace.  Walking – also called “volksmarching” – is the most popular of all the volkssporting activities.

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Routes often include historic and scenic sites. Trails are carefully laid out and marked and easy-to-follow directions or maps are provided. Trails are rated based on the challenge the route presents. The designated Start Point is open for several hours to allow you to begin your volkssporting adventure at your leisure. Trails are vetted for security and safety.

In the volkssporting tradition, you frequently find volkssporters gathered at the Finish Point where they take time to enjoy friends, and at some events, entertainment or refreshments.

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Iowa's Walking Club is a non-profit run 100% by volunteers. The club was established in 1985 and has more than 150 members. We are associated with the American Volkssport Association (AVA) and the International Federation of Popular Sports (IVV). Learn more about the American Volksport Association at https://ava.org/.

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All of our events:

  • Are open to everyone - you don't have to be a member to participate.

  • Are non-competitive - go at your own pace.

  • Can be done on your schedule.

  • Can be done for a nominal cost ($4)

Learn more about the American Volkssport Association (AVA), our mother organization:

Our Rules

  • Be kind and courteous. We're all in this together to create a welcoming environment. Let's treat everyone with respect. Healthy debates are natural, but kindness is required.

  • No posting of political or religious content. Remember that Iowa's Walking Club is a diverse community.

  • No promotions or spam or seeking donations. Give more than you take in this group. Self-promotion, spam, and irrelevant links aren't allowed.

  • No hate speech or bullying. Let's make sure everyone feels safe.

  • Respect everyone's privacy. Being part of this group requires mutual trust. Any sensitive or private information shared here should stay here.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Iowa's Walking Club is an equal-opportunity organization that does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law. ​Our organization prohibits harassment and disrespectful behavior on any basis listed above. Examples of harassment include:

  • Verbal harassment including threats, slurs, epithets, and unwanted sexual comments or advances

  • Visual displays including inappropriate gestures, photos, drawings, etc.

  • Physical conduct such as unwanted touch and assault​​

We are committed to creating an environment where all who participate in our walks are treated with respect.

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