Causes Can be Great for Fitness and Health

There are as many runs, walks and fitness events as there are causes to donate money to.  While I don't suggest that you do all of them, choosing an event and training for it can be great for your body and your mind.  Having a race date and a set length can provide easy goals and motivation to get out there and move.  It also gives you a chance to give to a cause that means something to you.

I am walking in the Columbus Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on May 14th.  This cause means the world to me, as I lost my sister to breast cancer last year.  I am also BRCA-1 positive, which gave me an 85% chance of getting breast cancer too.  I chose to have a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy last year, so breast cancer took its toll on me too, even though I didn't ever have it.  Raising money for research to end this disease makes me feel good.  It also gives me a reason to ramp up my workouts.

I can't run due to hip and knee arthritis, but I can walk really fast and I am looking forward to finishing with a good speedy walking time!  You don't have to be a runner to have fun at these events.  My parents are walking too, as are my young nephews.  The key is to get out there!

I encourage you to pick a race or event that is a challenge but is not unrealistic.  Find a partner to train with and enjoy the good feeling that comes from doing something good for your body and a worthy cause!

For more information on the Race for the Cure in Columbus, visit komencolumbus.org.