Spring has arrived, and with the warmer temps and longer days, more of us are out walking. Healthy Joplin is holding a Walking Groups Initiative on Saturday. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

Did you know that walking can ease joint pain? Several studies have found that walking reduces arthritis-related pain and that walking five to six miles a week can even prevent arthritis from forming in the first place.

Healthy Joplin invites you to join the kickoff for their Walking Groups Initiative tomorrow at Mercy Park’s Shelter 1, located on the south side of the pond. Festivities will begin at 9:00 am with a ribbon-cutting and door prizes, which will be given away to those who have registered.

This event will allow fellow walkers to connect while giving those who are interested in joining a group a chance to learn about the program and its benefits. To learn more about Healthy Joplin, visit healthyjoplin.com or visit their Facebook page. Also, in case of inclement weather, the event will move to the JCPenney’s Court at the Northpark Mall.