HOTM and HCMC serve to represent the importance of exercise by actively reminding the community that others are exercising as well, according to leaders of the organization. The HCMC mailing list has over 500 subscribers. Over the list, members post runs with their expected mileage, pace, and the location of where to meet. The list is also used to share running tips, such as where to run and what to wear.

“Some people who always prefer to run alone say they like being on the list just because it serves as a consistent reminder that others at Harvard are running, which in turn motivates them to keep running,” Rodgers said.

Peng added that the motivation to exercise comes not only from knowing that people are exercising, but also from exercising together.

“If you run for four hours by yourself it is miserable, at least for some people,” she said. “For group running, it is a lot easier to get into it. It is always easier to run with a buddy.”

GOING THE DISTANCE

While these programs have been around for a few years—with HOTM launched in January 2011 and HCMC founded in the fall of 2005—this year, they have made efforts to attract new members of the community, including both faculty and students alike.

According to walk leader, Kayla A. Hart, who is also a staff assistant at the Center for Wellness, the programs do not get as much publicity as they should. Organizers have been searching for new ways to reach members of the Harvard community.