Walk your way to better health

WVU Healthcare to kick off ‘Walk 100 Miles in 100 Days’

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – It’s that time of year again – time to start organizing your team for the annual “Walk 100 Miles in 100 Days” campaign, which runs from March 21 through June 28.

In its 17th year, the program encourages participants to develop the habit of walking at least one mile a day as a form of exercise. This year’s campaign is called “In 2011, strive to be a healthier you.”

“Last year we had more than 6,000 people participate, including employees, their family members and members of the community,” Dave Harshbarger, manager of The Wellness Program at WVU Healthcare, said. “The average participant completed 125 miles, and more than 97 percent reached the goal of 100 miles.”

The Wellness Program encourages participants to consider walking for transportation when able. Sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor for developing heart disease. West Virginia typically ranks near the top of the list, having more heart disease per capita than any other state.

“Regular exercise is a way to prevent heart disease, as well as obesity, another problem in West Virginia,” Harshbarger said. “This is a great opportunity to get regular exercise, do something healthy with friends and family and have fun.”

Participants can sign up individually or form teams for their own business/organization. The registration deadline is March 18.  For more information, call 304-293-2520. Registration information is available online at www.hsc.wvu.edu/wellness.