Running For It
This past Saturday, I ran a 5k.For many of you, that's not a big deal, so let me tell you why this one was...This 5k was hosted by my beloved nonprofit, To Write Love On Her Arms. More than just the fact that they were hosting, this 5k held a lot of significance for me.I spent a lot of my life running away from the tough stuff.I ran away from difficult situations because I felt so deeply. I ran away from tasks that were hard to do because I didn't want to exert the effort. I self-medicated to run away from dealing with the parts of my life that I was trying to numb away.Now that I am where I am, and I've fought through the trials, I know that a life of gratitude and peace is only achieved after being put through the ringer. It doesn't have to be to any exact extent, it simply means this.
Rising through struggle teaches us what is worth fighting for.
As a virtual participant, I could run from anywhere, so I chose to do a treadmill run so that I could see exactly how far I had gone, and do my scheduled HIIT workout afterwards (can't skip my HIIT!).I had decided that I would dedicate each mile of my 3.1 for the day. Here's the short Instagram video I shot during my run...
Mile 1: For Bronwyn
We lost Bronwyn too soon. She didn't know how important she was. Now, her brilliant mind and elf-like beauty are gone.
Mile 2: For The Life I Almost Lost Hope In
9 years ago, I almost lost hope. To think that all the blessings in my life never would have existed makes me forever grateful for the people who ran toward me during that time to ensure me that I was worth fighting for.
Mile 3.1: Because Movement Brings Hope
Fitness inspired strength in me that I didn't know existed. Since finding movement as my outlet and my source of inspiration, I have proven myself wrong strong many times over.Studies show that exercise can be just as effective if not more so than medications for a host of emotional disorders, many of which plague those who consider suicide.
If we can start showing people what they're capable of by getting them to move–getting them to FEEL the power of strong–we can save lives.
Which brings me to my exciting announcement for the day...
The Strong Inside Out Tour: It's Happening
You bet your a** we're continuing this movement!
I am thrilled to announce that the official Strong Inside Out Tour Page is up and running. Click here to see it and read all about our mission and last year's 30x30 Project Tour!
This year, I want every bootcamp I teach to be part of a larger event. I'm thinking big celebrations of hope and movement, sweating, breathing and strengthening together so that we may inspire fight in those who want to put down their gloves.You are an important part of this movement. Last year, we raised over $18,000 through crowdfunding, but this year, I'm looking for help in the form of partnerships and sponsorships from businesses across North America.If you want me to come to your city, want to help out with promotion, know someone that might be interested in helping us fund the tour this year, or you just want to stay updated about this year's tour dates and happenings, please click here to get involved.Even if you can't give much of your time or money, you can still help by sharing the movement with your friends and family.No tweet, Facebook share, pin or +1 is too small to make a difference. No matter how you use your voice, we appreciate you using it for hope. Click here to take action.The dates aren't set yet, but I'll be updating the new site as the tour dates get scheduled.Health and happiness are found when we run toward the challenge, not away from it. [tweet]With this tour, I hope to help inspire people to do just that.Looking forward to seeing all your gorgeous sweaty faces very soon.Stay strong,Amy