Thousands of people in Marion County are expected to take steps toward healthier living during the Healthiest State Walks being held today. The one kilometer walks are being held in Pella at West Market Park at noon, as well as in Knoxville at the Knoxville Recreation Center at 10am and Knoxville Hospital and Clinics at 12:30pm. The walks first started last year as part of Governor Terry Branstad’s initiative to make Iowa the healthiest state in the nation. Officials estimate more than 291,000 Iowans participated last year. Hundreds of children throughout Marion County are also expected to participate through the schools. A study released last month says that around 29 percent of Iowans are considered 20 pounds or more over a healthy weight.