Every year since Sarah Blumig started working at Duke in 2019, she has participated in the Duke Run/Walk Club when it has been offered.
Blumig, the director of Leadership Annual Giving - DCI Focus for Duke Health Development and Alumni Affairs, said it's a simple matter of inspiration.
"It definitely helps me just get into the habit of going for a walk," Blumig said. "Or even in between meetings if I want to go outside and take a couple of walks around the block. I think it helps me also just keep the momentum going even when the program is over."
Organized by LIVE FOR LIFE, the staff and faculty wellness program, registration for the Spring 2024 Run/Walk Club is underway. The in-person, virtual and hybrid club begins March 11 and lasts until May 31.
Everyone from beginner walkers to advanced runners - and everything in between - can participate in the free club that meets each Monday and Wednesday. Beginner through intermediate walkers and runners will use the East Campus Loop Trail and meet across the street from the Duke Human Resources building at 705 Broad St. Advanced walkers and runners will use the Al Buehler Trail on West Campus and meet in the trail parking lot at 751/Cameron Boulevard.
This is the third season since the COVID pandemic to offer an in-person option. Lauren Bullock, a fitness specialist at LIVE FOR LIFE, said in-person groups have averaged eight to 20 people in recent clubs, and many attend with their dogs on a leash or children in strollers.
"We get to talk to everyone and kind of get to know them more personally throughout the season, which is nice," Bullock said.
Current U.S. Department of Health and Human Services guidelines recommend adults should engage in at least 2 hours and 30 minutes each week of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for substantial health benefits. That equates to a little more than 21 minutes per day.
Studies have found that activity such as briskly walking can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (including heart disease and stroke), hypertension and Type 2 diabetes, as well as reduce anxiety and improve sleep, among other benefits.
Participants in the Run/Walk Club receive a weekly email with tips, motivation and a training plan. Anyone who logs at least 10 sessions - whether in-person or virtual - earns LIVE FOR LIFE Dollars (Monopoly-like money) to purchase items like Fitbits, reusable water bottles and more.
All of those are incentives that Blumig appreciates. She participates in the walk version of the club, typically after work and remotely - with her two dachshund-mix dogs, Finnegan and Fritz.
"I like the incentive of getting my LIVE FOR LIFE dollars," Blumig said. "And it's a good motivation to get the emails a couple times a week, so it has me keeping fitness and trying to stay healthy top of mind."
