Being active for a cause
Bikeathons, walkathons, skipathons
and fun runs: Charitable events are springing up like flowers now that the nicer
weather is here. These events are a great way to get more active while helping
a worthy cause. They're also an opportunity to shake off the winter cobwebs
and to bond with other participants.
Put your heart into it
If you live in the Greater Toronto
Area, the Becel Heart&Stroke Ride for Heart on Sunday,
June 7 is a great opportunity for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Not only will you be raising money for important heart and stroke research,
you'll also get plenty of physical activity!
You can choose the length of route
that suits you best — 75, 50 or 25 km — completing each at your
own pace, so if you haven't ridden for a while, you'll still have fun. All routes
travel part of the Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway. There is also
a special route for inline skaters.
While nothing beats the excitement
of being at the starting line with 12,000 other enthusiastic cyclists, you can
participate even if you don't live in or near Toronto. Organize your own cycling
event on that day, sponsor a rider or participate in a fundraising event in
your area.
Be event-savvy
Whatever type of event you participate
in, here's how you can get the most out of the experience.
Plan ahead. Choose a number of events to participate in through
the season. It will inspire you to stay active in order to be ready for event
day.
Get equipped. Be sure your gear fits well and is appropriate
for the event and weather conditions. You'll need sunglasses and sunscreen for
fair weather and a rain-proof shell for wet days, plus a helmet (for the Ride),
a hat and something to carry keys, money, water and a small energy snack in.
Tune up. Check your gear a couple of weeks before the event,
so you have time for tune-ups and last minute purchases if necessary. Do a test
ride to make sure shoes don't rub or pinch and bicycles, in-line skates or other
equipment is functioning properly.
Shape up. Avoid waiting until race day to find out whether
you're in good enough shape to complete the course. Start getting active several
weeks before, and try to complete a similar-length route well before race day
so you know what to expect.
Join the crowd. It may seem unnerving to be closely surrounded
by so many other walkers, runners or cyclists, especially if you're used to
being active alone. Just remember that it's most crowded at the beginning of
the event, and the throngs soon thin out. If you're really uncomfortable, try
to position yourself at the back of the starting line. Then, enjoy the spectacle!
Recruit others. Events are more fun when you ask friends, family
or co-workers to join you. The Becel Heart&Stroke Ride for Heart,
for example, encourages families and people of all abilities to participate
and emphasizes that it's a "ride" not a "race."
Ride for Heart
Grab your bike and take part in The
Becel Heart&Stroke Ride for Heart on Sunday, June 7. Register
now!