(ARA) - While less than one tenth of one percent of Americans have ever completed a marathon, that number soon may be changing. Due to the growing trend of marathon walking, many people who otherwise thought completing a marathon was out of their reach are getting their shot at achieving a lofty personal fitness goal while helping millions of Americans at the same time.
Many people used to think a marathon was not for them or that completing a 26.2-mile event was an impossible feat because they were not seasoned runners. However, with the advent of charity programs like the Arthritis Foundation's Joint in Motion program, marathon walking is becoming not only acceptable, but also popular. In fact, of the more than 2,000 participants annually in the Arthritis Foundation's Joints in Motion marathon training program, 60 percent are walkers. Seeing this trend, the foundation added a hiking component for those who prefer a different type of challenge.
Arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the United States, affecting one in three adults and nearly 300,000 children. For one in seven Americans, arthritis is a daily struggle that limits even the simplest activities that others may take for granted, such as dressing, bathing or even brushing one's hair.
Joints in Motion participants commit to raising funds on behalf of the Arthritis Foundation and walk in honor of a person with arthritis. In return, the Arthritis Foundation provides a 20-week training program with seasoned coaches, detailed training schedules, weekly group training sessions and ongoing support to increase endurance and improve walking strategy. In addition, the foundation offers clinics that cover important subjects such as proper footwear, nutrition and the importance of stretching. The training period culminates with travel to the event destination of the participant's choice.
The Joints in Motion program is designed to lead people of all ages and fitness levels through an extensive training program to complete a marathon. Approximately 80 percent of all Joints in Motion athletes have never completed a marathon before, but with careful guidance and encouragement from staff and other volunteers, nearly all of them cross the finish line.
If you are interested in joining a future Joints in Motion training team, or would like additional information, contact the Arthritis Foundation at (877) 9-JOINTS, or visit www.jointsinmotion.org.
