Marilyn Hall, left, and Rita Spradlin are in an all-female walking club known as the Jabber-walkers. Both women will participate in the 2010 Lynn Electric Kansas Marathon, presented by Hy-Vee, on April 18.

For 15 years, Lawrence resident Rita Spradlin has walked around Kansas University’s campus – three times a week – with some of her closest friends in an all-female walking group known as the “Jabberwalkers.”

As the name implies, these ladies probably do as much talking as walking.

“We’ve established quite a camaraderie,” Spradlin said of the group that often goes out for coffee or tea after their 7 a.m. walks.

While the group usually sticks to a three-mile route in the mornings, several of the members, including Spradlin, will be taking their exercise regimen to the next level next month by participating in the 2010 Lynn Electric Kansas Marathon.

Spradlin and fellow Jabberwalker Marilyn Hall, who came up with the idea after walking a half marathon in San Francisco earlier this year, will walk the half marathon at the event.

“We thought maybe this would be a nice challenge,” Spradlin said.

Spradlin, at 80, is the oldest member of the crew, but looks decades younger. Despite her youthful appearance, she’s had her share of health issues, including two heart attacks.

Walking, and talking, with the group keeps her going.

“It makes me feel so good,” Spradlin said. “I start walking and I don’t want to go home.”