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Walkers log miles for health

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By Kelly Mori, Staff Writer 9:20 PM Wednesday, May 20, 2009

SPRINGFIELD — There is no better exercise than walking, said Connie Miller.

“It’s relaxing. Almost anyone can do it. And it’s just great to be outdoors,” said Miller of Springfield, as she walked the soccer fields at Eagle City Soccer Complex. “I walk every day.”

On Wednesday, May 20, dozens of Clark County residents joined Miller in her favorite exercise activity during the fifth annual Healthy Ohio Fitness Walk held at Eagle City Soccer Complex and the county’s two YMCAs.

The state set a goal of 100,000 miles, said Penny Dunbar, recreation specialist for National Trail Parks and Recreation District. Dunbar, who registered walkers and handed out water bottles during the noon walk, said National Trail did not set a local goal, but is tracking miles walked for a benchmark for a possible goal next year.

The Springfield and Tecumseh YMCAs were tracking the miles logged on their walking tracks, which were open during the lunch hour. Golf courses were also involved — keeping track of the miles golfers covered, and many local businesses were hosting their own events, she said.

In addition to Wednesday’s event, National Trail sponsors a weekly Trail Walkers program. The Tuesday walks begin at 10 a.m. and rotate among various walking trails in the county.

On June 2, the walk will take place at Ohio Masonic Community where walkers will receive free blood pressure and sugar tests along with a free lunch provided by the Masonic Community, said Jill Metz admissions representative for Ohio Masonic Community.

“This would be a great time for people to join us,” Metz said.

The more the merrier — or in this case — the healthier, Dunbar said.

“There are so many benefits to walking. It lowers your blood pressure, increases your endurance, lowers your blood sugar,” she said. “The more people we have walking, the better the health of the county will be.”

To register for the June 2 free walking event and lunch, call (937) 525-3001.

For more information about Trail Walkers call (937) 328-7275.

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