To inspire and boost overall fitness, Lawrence Memorial Hospital and the Douglas County Community Health Improvement Partnership is sponsoring the national walking campaign, Walktober.

On average, Americans walk 4,000 steps fewer each day than they should to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Ruth Sarna, director of student health services, is collecting registration forms from Baker University students, faculty and staff for the 31-day walking initiative.

The program begins Oct. 1 and runs throughout the month. The Walktober sponsors provide weekly email tips on staying healthy, and Sarna said she has had many positive experiences as a participant.

“It’s just the best thing that can be done in the fall,” Sarna said. “It’s gorgeous weather and just getting outside is a good thing. It’s an easy thing to do, it doesn’t take equipment and you just get out and walk.”

Participants can choose to walk individually or form a group. Sarna said past participants have also used a walking partner to help encourage and support one another.

“If they can’t walk with someone, at least they can get out and walk by themselves to get that exercise in,” Sarna said.

The program also provides 31 one-mile walking paths in the Lawrence and Baldwin City area.

Registration for Walktober ends Monday.