Last updated: 13th August 2004

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MARK FENTON

Date of Events: Friday, September 10th, 2004

On Friday, September 10th, nationally-renowned walkability expert and physical activity promoter Mark Fenton will present two events designed to encourage walking and other forms of routine physical activity in Columbia: Mark Fenton is host of "America’s Walking" on PBS television, author of "The Complete Guide to Walking for Health, Weight Loss, and Fitness" (Lyons Press, 2001), and Physical Activity Program Manager of the University of North Carolina’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center. He is an entertaining, persuasive, and knowledgeable walking advocate, and one the nation’s foremost experts on its favorite activity.

The former editor-at-large of WALKING Magazine is also a champion walker: From 1986 to 1990, Mark was a member of the United States national racewalking team five times, and represented the US in numerous international competitions. In addition, while training for the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Trials in the 50-kilometer (31-mile) racewalk (he didn’t make the teams), he studied biomechanics and exercise physiology at the Olympic Training Center’s Sports Science Laboratory in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Mark’s interest in the field began with the study of the biomechanics of walking at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After earning BS and MS degrees in mechanical engineering, Mark worked as manager of research engineering at Reebok. His work led to numerous publications related to exercise science, human performance, and athletic footwear and materials, while also providing plentiful experience on the health benefits of walking. Currently Mark uses that knowledge as an author, consultant to communities and work sites, and as a speaker and motivator on public health and fitness issues. His instruction spans the spectrum from introductory fitness-walking clinics to coaching elite athletes.

Most recently, Mark has become a vocal pedestrian advocate and recognized authority on public health issues and the need for community, environmental, and public-policy initiatives to encourage more walking and bicycling. He is a member of the executive committee of the Partnership for a Walkable America and he addresses groups on topics ranging from transportation and planning, to safety, advocacy, and public health. As well as "The Complete Guide to Walking," Mark is the author of "he 90-Day Fitness Walking Program" (Perigee, 1995), "Precision Walking," and "The New Walker’s Logbook," and he hosted the special "Walk to a Better Life" on PBS television.

Certain that he must practice what he preaches, Mark still walks as often as he can-usually with his wife and two children - for fun, transportation, and to stay in shape for hiking, cycling, orienteering, kayaking, and cross-country skiing whenever they have a chance.

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