Have you wondered where some of the more ideal walking trails or locations are in the county? Has that New Year's resolution to lose weight been ignored? Do you need someone to give you a little encouragement from time to time to follow your workout regimen? The Warren County Health Department and Warrenton Recreation Department have partnered together to form a Walking for Fitness program, a 12-week course designed to fill those needs. Each week individuals will weigh themselves and have their blood pressure checked while maintaining a ledger to keep track of their progress. Participants will receive a pedometer to measure their steps and water bottle from the health department, along with a program guide to help plan and track weekly progress. The free program is open to anyone living or working in Warren County. "We're trying to educate them on the proper way of walking and how to care for themselves," said Patrick Randolph, the city's recreation director. "We're the motivator to keep them going." The program was announced at last week's monthly Wellness Luncheon hosted by the health department. Since then, more than 20 individuals have already signed up to participate. According to Stacey White, health department educator, the adult obesity rate in Warren County in 2007 was 29.9 percent. She said the health department has received funding from the state to help lower that figure and believes the walking program is a step in the right direction. She added the benefits of walking include lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure, staying fit and managing your weight. "(The obesity rate) is pretty high," White said. "This is something that will help impact that." Walking trails or areas that have been measured for participants are located at Binkley Park, the outlet mall and Wal-Mart, all in Warrenton. The program also will be extended to other communities in the county. For example, a walking trail exists in Ruge Park in Wright City, while the Katy Trail in the southern area of the county could be used as well. Participants aren't required to follow the program manual, but both Randolph and White said it's there to answer questions and provide information on the proper way to train. White said she is encouraging residents to form walking groups. "Research shows if you write things down and check in with somebody, when you're accountable, you are more successful," she said. "It's something they can track to see how much progress they have made." The program's start also coincides with the scheduled annual Catch the Glow 5K run/walk scheduled for July 3. Walkers or runners can measure their progress following the 12-week program though participation is not required. For more information about the program, contact the recreation department at 636-456-3535 or the health department at 636-456-7474. "I think it's a great program," Randolph said. "It's great that the health department and city are working together. I am very excited about this."