From dog jogs to walks for breast cancer, there’s an event for whatever cause hits close to home. If you’re looking for a way to support a cause, an issue or a loved one, I strongly urge you to consider a charity race. I say this not just for the physical benefits (which come with training for the event), but because you’ll gain a lot emotionally and may even find new life-long goals.
Here are five other great reasons to sign up for something you believe in:
1. This goes without saying, but charity races are a great way to raise money and create awareness for a cause that has meaning to you. In other words, it’s fulfilling.
2. Committing to a charity race means committing to exercise. Knowing that you are helping others, will keep you motivated and encouraged to stick with a fitness program. That’s never a bad thing.
3. You’ll meet like-minded people and probably make a lot of friends in the process. Participation in charity events typically involves several meetings and training sessions as a group. Whether you’re walking, cycling or running, it’s one great way to find a team with the same end goal. Bonus: the team environment provides even more encouragement to keep you on track with training.
4. Training for any kind of race requires fueling. With more and more companies becoming sponsors or endorsers of charitable organizations, you can find delicious nutrition to support your own efforts. With 12 grams of protein and fewer than 200 calories, Luna Protein Bars will feed your muscles and warm your heart. To replenish electrolytes, sip on a cup of Emergen-C Pink Lemonade and recover knowing that you’re supporting breast cancer awareness.
5. Charity groups such as Team in Training are structured to help you succeed on and off the course. They provide coaches to give you specific workouts that will lead you into the event and fundraising tips to help you hit your money target. Organizations like this provide the resources and motivation you need to complete anything from a 5K to a iron-distance triathlon.
To ensure you’ll cross the finish line, choose a charity that you are truly passionate about and go after your fitness goals!