February 15, 2009 03:47 am
It’s mid- February, and the beginning of spring-like weather is a wonderful time in South Georgia.
It’s mid- February and the beginning of spring-like weather is a wonderful time in South Georgia. The flowers, bushes and trees are beautiful and alive. The temperatures are wonderful for being active outdoors. Not too hot, not too cold, just right. The sun is shining a little more each day — more hours to get your workout done in the day light hours.
Some of us are ready to shed the winter insulation we have gained, in preparation for the summer season just around the corner. We may have had New Year’s Resolutions, but they have dwindled to the side as we have gotten farther away from January 1. What a perfect time to make the personal decision to begin for the first time, or start another exercise program. It is never too late to start a program to improve your physical fitness and quality of life. Spring offers a variety of reasons to decide on an activity that allows you to enjoy the outdoors, like walking, running, cycling and such.
There are plenty of events coming up in March and April that will boost your support system. You will be amazed at how many neighbors, co-workers and members of your congregation are active in these types of events week-in and week-out.
Most Thursday evenings, listen to Talk 92.1 FM for the radio program that will offer an interview with recognized experts concerning the benefits of an active lifestyle. In the meantime, start a program to be proactive and preventative – rather than reactive. Get active. Listen in and become involved on Talk 92.1 FM between 6-7 p.m. You will learn from this program.
The Valdosta Grand Prix circuit for 2009 started on Jan. 1 and continues throughout the year. There are five events throughout the year: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day. In each of these events, points can be earned towards overall and age group categories. Four of the five events will have an entry fee of $5 and a cap for a family of $20; however, no T-shirts will be offered. Awards will be given out to overall, masters and the top two in each of 16 age groups, both male and female. The way the points are awarded should keep everyone close in the standings. Be a part of the 2009 Valdosta Grand Prix. In conjunction with this Grand Prix is one designed for the younger folks who run the 1-mile events. Get the family involved in either the 5K or 1-mile events. You will feel the difference.
On Feb. 28, the annual Victory for Victoria run/walks will occur on the Valwood campus. Applications are out, and your family can get involved.
On March 14, the annual Azalea Festival 5K and 1-mile runs will be presented. Applications are available, so come by the Get Active running store to pick one up.
On March 21, the Knights of Columbus present a 5K and 1-mile fun run to raise money for the ACS Relay for Life. Be a part of a wonderful family event that helps raise money to rid of world of cancer.
Events and opportunities in April will be shared in the coming weeks.
If you have questions about your walking, running or other training, drop me an e-mail and I will do my level best to answer your questions. Check out www.getactivevaldosta.com to get connected. Become a member of the GetActiveSouthGeorgia yahoo group with over 119 other people. Listen to the Get Active radio program on Thursday evenings from 6-7 p.m. on Talk 92.1 FM to receive additional information or to ask questions.