Locals got fit,stayed fit,and won't quit!
Community walks equivalent of USA and Appalachian Trail
By Lizz Harold Staff Writer

Inactive residents independantly took up a campaign against laziness last spring. Over 18,000 walking miles have been accumulated since then among nearly 200 people from Andrews and the surrounding county.

Several organizations representing businesses, spiritual groups, aging locals and the mentally handicapped have accumulated miles up until late September. The miles have tallied up to match that of the round trip 4,336 mile hike of the Appalachian Trail and the 10,870 mile circumference of the United States of America.

Miles collected from participants were totaled from various physical activities including swimming, jumping rope, cycling, and sports like tennis. There was no limit to what kind of activity one could partake in and no other incentive other than staying fit to motivate participation.

"This is not just a physical thing. This is spiritual," said Carl Hartman, the project campaign coordinator.

The simulated walk of the USA and Appalachian Trail ended last month, however the movement has inspired the community to get fit together in new ways.

IOI, or Industrial Opprotunities Incorporated, totaled 2,046 miles during the U.S.A Walk with 30 participants. After helping the community with their campaign, IOI has begun their own simulated journey around the nation.

A group called the Firm Believers has incorporated their faith into member supported exercise groups. They meet every Monday at 5:00 p.m. at Christ Community Church in White Plaza to spend an hour a week listening to motivational talks and engaging in low-impact exercise.

With nothing more than a desire to get off the couch and into shape, the campaign to "Declare your Independence from Inactivity" has proven a success.

Carl Hartman encouraged the community organizations to continue with their regiments and look towards reaching new goals. He expects that next spring the campaign will continue with another simulated walk.

For more information on local exercise and spiritual based fitness groups, contact Carl Hartman at 321-0522.