Tonya Peace decided it was time to make improvements in her health, so she turned to LIVE FOR LIFE, Duke's employee wellness program, for advice. That's where she learned about a new program called the Duke Run/Walk Club.

"I was looking for a program that would motivate me to get on track and stay on track with improving my fitness levels and overall health," says Peace, a government administrator with the Office of Science and Technology. "Almost a year later, I continue to take part and encourage others to participate in the club because of the remarkable improvements I have seen in my health and the support I get from other members."

The Duke Run/Walk Club was first organized by LIVE FOR LIFE in the spring of 2002 to promote greater physical activity among Duke employees. The Run/Walk Club began as a small group of Duke employees who attended local races together. But since the inception of the program, the Run/Walk Club has expanded to include a free 12-week training program with more than 120 participants registered for the most recent program.

"One of the motivating factors for adherence to an exercise program is social support," says Lauren Clobridge, fitness specialist with LIVE FOR LIFE and coordinator of the Duke Run/Walk Club. "The Run/Walk Club provides employees of all ages and fitness levels with an opportunity to exercise in a group setting and have fun while getting fit. We have seen tremendous results in the fitness levels of almost all of the participants, from lower blood pressure, body fat percentage and cholesterol to increases in self-esteem and confidence."

The 12-week training program, which will begin again June 5, includes cardiovascular and strength training for all fitness levels, from new exercisers and beginning runners to those training for half-marathons. Many of the group leaders are faculty and staff who participated in a previous program and now lead the walk, run/walk and run groups through the twice-weekly cardiovascular regimens developed by LIVE FOR LIFE.

Peace, about to begin her fourth Run/Walk training program, will be helping others achieve their goals and make fitness a focus in their lives as a team leader for the walk group.

"When I first joined the Duke Run/Walk Club, I struggled when it came to running," says Peace. "But each time I went and worked out with my colleagues, it got easier - it has really changed my life. As long as the Run/Walk Club is around I will be a part of it and will continue to encourage others to join."

As part of the Duke Run/Walk Club, participants receive free fitness evaluations at the beginning and end of the training program so they can see how they have improved during the course of the 12 weeks. Participants can also choose to run or walk with the Run/Walk Club at local races throughout the season.

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Joining the Duke Run/Walk Club is easy - just show up. The next program begins Thursday, June 5. The Run/Walk Club meets Mondays and Thursdays at 5:45 p.m. in front of Wallace Wade Stadium. Following the run/walk, employees can participate in the strength-training component that will take place from approximately 6:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. Parking is available on Bassett Drive off of Science Drive.

For more information or to register for the Run/Walk Club, please visit www.hr.duke.edu/fitness, stop by the LIVE FOR LIFE office at 04290 Red Zone, Duke Clinics, call 681-0520 or email clobr001@mc.duke.edu.