VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Women participating in walking groups in Hampton Roads are creating community while getting steps in together. The meet-ups bring women from all backgrounds together.
Jane Gallagher, who works from home, founded City Girls Walk VA in 2023 shortly after moving to the 757.
"I didn't know the area well at all. I thought I love to get out, I love to be active and I want to meet new friends," Gallagher said.
She posted on Instagram and asked if any other women wanted to go out for a walk. Around 20 girls attended on January 7, 2023.
"I thought one person was going to show up, and I'd be super happy about that. Since then, we've had over 60 walks. It's been a little bit over a year. Every weekend, we get together," said Gallagher. "So many girls come alone, and it's usually their first time."
City Girls Walk VA walks spots in Norfolk, like Ghent and Ocean View, as well as Greenbrier in Chesapeake and sections of Virginia Beach.
Whether you're a longtime member or a newcomer, everyone's in the same boat.
"Every walk, we have a little speech where we encourage people to stretch themselves, talk to new people," said Twinkle Gera.
After noticing women would drive from Gloucester, Hampton, Newport News and other areas across the water for walks on the Southside, Gallagher started the WMBG Walking Club in October 2023.
Women not only meet in Williamsburg but also in other pockets of the Peninsula. The club's leadership team is excited.
"The journey ahead, but also just meeting so many new people every single weekend and learning everybody's story is something so refreshing," said Theresa Walker, who serves as outreach director for WMBG Walking Club.
Being relatively new to the region and a military spouse, Walker said she wanted to get acclimated while meeting people from all over. And no matter how large or small the turnout is, tight bonds form.
"True close friendships and people I can talk with or laugh with," said Anna Nagorniuk. "I hadn't really ever had a sense of community like this."
They could be locals like Nagorniuk or transplants in Hampton Roads for school, work or the military.
"Being in the Navy, being an adult, being a woman in uniform, it's very hard to make friends," said Moira Offord.
The other women 13News Now said they value all the connections they make.
"It really is more than just a walking group," said Offord. "Actually, these girls motivated me to pursue my dreams. So, now, I'm in a [postbaccalaureate] program applying to medical school."
"As you're walking, you make plans with people," Gera added.
As an example, Gallagher said "girls will meet up at a bar in Virginia Beach or at brunch in Norfolk."
Furthermore, several members feel empowered to help lead the walks to ensure inclusion and safety. Some will also hold their own events, like study groups or a book club.
Schueller said her love for reading has reignited, thanks to City Girls. She leads the book club.
"The walks themselves, I think, are probably still my favorite part of the group. But, in terms of what has been most fulfilling, definitely the book club," said Schueller.
Anyone who identifies as a woman, ages 18+, is welcome at the walks on the Southside and Peninsula. To join, all you have to do is show up.
"It's also a low-stakes event. You're just walking. You're not committing to a sport. There's no barrier to entry," said Gera.
Gallagher said she is looking forward to meeting more new faces every weekend.
"Hopefully, girls in the area will find a space to connect, feel safe and feel welcome," Gallagher added.
Additionally, many times, depending on the route, babies on strollers and friendly dogs on leashes can also come along.
To find more information and walk schedules: