WVU Healthcare to kick off “Walk 100 Miles in 100 Days®”
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – With spring fast approaching, it’s time to start organizing your walking team. The Wellness Program at WVU Healthcare will start its annual “Walk 100 Miles in 100 Days®” campaign on Monday, March 19.In its 18th year, the program, which will run through June 26, encourages participants to develop the habit of walking at least one mile a day as a form of exercise.
“Last year we had more than 6,000 people in a sustained exercise program, including more than 3,400 employees and family members and 2,700 from the community,” Dave Harshbarger, wellness manager for 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. This is a great opportunity to get regular exercise, do something healthy with friends and family and have fun,” Harshbarger said.
The kick-off walk will begin at 9 a.m. on March 19 under the canopy of WVU Healthcare’s Ruby Memorial Hospital weather permitting. All are welcome to participate in the mile-long walk.
Participants can sign up individually or form teams and organize for their own business/organization. The registration deadline is March 16.
For more information, call 304-293-2520 or visit www.hsc.wvu.edu/wellness.